§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Energy what representations he has received concerning the current work stoppage on the Isle of Grain power station site; what assessment has been made of 279W the impact of the dispute upon the finances and forecast installed capacity of the Central Electricity Generating Board; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BennI have received representations about the provision of protective clothing for certain workers on the site which has caused the present stoppage, and also about the effects of the dispute on the local community. The CEGB estimates that the delay caused by the complete stoppage of work that has now occurred is adding about £1.2 million per month to capital costs. The power station was originally due to start producing electricity in the autumn of 1975; work is now currently about two years behind schedule.