HC Deb 14 November 1972 vol 846 cc92-3W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what are the comparative charges per unit for the supply of electricity to industrial undertakings in the several countries of the European Economic Community, including the United Kingdom; if he will take steps designed to encourage the production of sodium chlorate, silicon, magnesium and phosphorous in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Emery

Subject to difficulties of comparison, such as changing exchange rates, the available published tariffs indicate that charges per unit supplied to industrial undertakings are broadly similar in the several countries of the European Economic Community including the United Kingdom. Variations within countries are as great as those between countries.

The use of electricity for production of the substances referred to is usually on a very large scale and supplied under private contract rather than on published tariffs. Information about such contracts is very limited and confidential.

Of course, my hon. Friend will realise that I am anxious to encourage the production of these substances in the United Kingdom to the full extent possible compatible with our international obligations.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what are the comparative charges per unit for domestic electricity supply in the several countries of the European Economic Community, including the United Kingdom.

Mr. Emery

Comparisons are subject to difficulties due to changing exchange rates, the effect of price restraint and differences in availability of off-peak tariffs. There are considerable variations within individual countries, but as a generalisation domestic prices are be-levied to be rather lower in the United Kingdom than in most other countries of the European Economic Community.

Mr. Eadie

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether the Government will be required to submit any parliamentary coal Bill to the Council of the European Communities in accordance with regulation 1056/72/EEC of 18th May before the date of accession in 1973; and if he will now make a statement.

Mr. Emery

No. This regulation deals with the notification of hydrocarbon and electricity investment projects to the Commission.