§ Mr. Tom Boardmanasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he will now make a statement about the progressive relaxation of the restrictions on the use of electricity.
§ Sir J. EdenSince the original restrictions were imposed a number of relaxations have been made. First, from 19th February the directions prohibiting the use of electricity by larger consumers on specified days have been modified to exempt the use of communications equipment including telex. Secondly, with effect from today, 23rd February, the consumption of electricity for space heating in a wide range of non-domestic premises is permitted between midnight and 7 a.m. Thirdly, from today the larger consumers in Groups A to F who have received directions are permitted to consume electricity from midnight to 7 a.m., including electricity for space heating. They may also use electricity at any time in their offices which are part of 321W their industrial premises—although there are some restrictions on electric space heating—for their computers and ancillary equipment and for operating central heating equipment using other fuels. Finally, Group O consumers may increase their electricity consumption to 60 per cent. of normal instead of 50 per cent. The recovery programme is going well and I hope that soon it will be possible to announce further relaxations. The need for voluntary economy in electricity use by all consumers remains of very great importance.