HC Deb 03 March 1987 vol 111 c551W
Mr. Hardy

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what action he is taking within the European Economic Community to seek to ensure that electricity prices charged to industry by member countries are fair and transparent; what representations he has made to the Commission about the compatibility of electricity prices in France with the treaty of Rome; what action Her Majesty's Government propose to take on this matter within the general agreement on tariffs and trade; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Goodlad

The Council of Ministers has agreed principles governing electricity pricing on the Community. The Commission has confirmed that it will ensure the application of the treaty of Rome to pricing in the electricity sector and will bring to the Council's attention any malpractices.

Mr. Hardy

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what price is paid for the electricity imported from France by the Central Electricity Generating Board; and what information he has about the extent to which this price covers the total cost of production.

Mr. Goodlad

The detailed terms on which electricity is traded between the CEGB and Electricity de France are commercially confidential. The CEGB has, however, stated that its present arrangements provide for a two-year supply at a cost of up to 20 per cent. cheaper than could be generated on average in the United Kingdom. The costs of production are a matter for Electricity de France.