§ Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Energy how many electricity supplies to domestic users have been disconnected in the London Electricity Board area in the last six months; and how many complaints have been received by the board that a number of such disconnections were carried out contrary to the code of practice.
§ Mr. Norman LamontFor the latest available information in answer to the first part of his question I refer the right hon. Member to my replies to the hon. member for Woolwich, East (Mr. Cartwright) on 14 January [Vol. 976, c. 581]—and 20 March [Vol. 981 c. 31W 320]. The operation of the industry's code of practice and the handling of complaints about it are matters for the board, and I am asking the chairman to write to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Energy what representations he has received about the operation of the code of practice governing the disconnection of electricity supplies to domestic users; if he is satisfied that the code is being followed by the authorities concerned; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Norman LamontThis was one of the issues raised when I met members of the National Fuel Poverty Forum on 25 March. The operation by the gas and electricity industries of their code of practice is their responsibility. It is currently the subject of an independent review by the Policy Studies Institute jointly sponsored by the industries and their consumer councils.