§ Mr. Wrayasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether, in the event of privatisation of the national electricity system, he will consider the establishment of a public authority with sufficient powers and resources to monitor and ultimately decide about the standards, quality of supply and cost of electricity.
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§ Mr. Michael SpicerWe shall ensure that the electricity supply industry is properly regulated after privatisation, for the benefit of consumers. The precise nature of the regulatory regime will depend on the decisions to be taken about the future structure of the industry.
§ Mr. Wrayasked the Secretary of State for Energy what steps would be necessary for the protection of the environment and of the health and safety of the people in the event that nuclear electricity plants were transferred to private or foreign ownership.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerVery high safety standards currently exist for the operation of nuclear power stations to protect the environment and the health and safety of both the work force and the general population. The Government have not yet decided on the structure of the privatised electricity supply industry but there will be no question of compromising safety standards or the regulatory framework which ensures that current standards are maintained.
§ Mr. Wrayasked the Secretary of State for Energy (1) what special provisions he will make for the protection of electricity supplies to pensioners in the event of privatisation of electricity supply;
(2) what consultation he is having so as to ensure that privatisation of the electricity system does not worsen the situation as regards electricity supplies to pensioners, single parent families, the unemployed and students living on their own.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerOur aim is to create a more efficient, economic and competitive industry for the benefit of all consumers. We are developing plans and consulting widely on the issues involved.
§ Mr. Wrayasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make it his policy that the national electricity service gives priority to the satisfaction of the energy requirements of the population.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerMy right hon. Friend and I are developing proposals for privatisation. Consumer service is a top priority.