HC Deb 07 February 1972 vol 830 cc246-7W
67. Mr. Bob Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will give a general direction to gas and electricity boards that in the case of retirement pensioners or physically handicapped consumers in no circumstances shall a supply be terminated unless the chief welfare officer of the local authority has been informed and has acknowledged notice of the Board's intention.

71. Sir C. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether, in view of the danger caused to sick persons living alone when their electricity supply is disconnected as a result of non-payment of accounts, he will give a general direction to the electricity authorities to the effect that there must be a visit from an official of the area board before such disconnection.

Mr. John Davies

The gas and electricity boards cannot know the circumstances of individual consumers unless these are brought to the attention of a responsible official of the board concerned. There is already good liaison between gas and electricity boards and the welfare authorities, and discussions are going on to ensure that close contact is maintained about the problems of elderly, sick or handicapped consumers to avoid hardship.