North Western Gas Board (North Sea Supplies)

HC Deb 20 November 1967 vol 754 cc267-8W

Mr. Clegg

asked the Minister of Power when he estimates that natural gas will be in general use in the North-West.

Mr. Freeson

First supplies of North Sea gas are already reaching the North Western Gas Board area and, on present plans, additional quantities will become available as supplies build up from the North Sea. The gas is first being used as a feedstock to make town gas, but it is planned to begin a phased programme of conversion of consumers' appliances in the spring of 1968. It is hoped to convert about 10 per cent. of consumers by 1970 and to increase this rate of conversion in later years.