HC Deb 25 July 1988 vol 138 c88W
20. Mr. Butler

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the progress of increased access to the national grid by private generators of electricity 1983.

Mr. Michael Spicer

Although the Energy Act 1983 allowed private generators common carrier access to the electricity supply industry's transmisson and distribution system, it has not gone far enough in encouraging competition. After privatisation all generators will have fair and equal access to the transmission and distribution system.

32. Mr. Meale

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if, in the light of the National Consumer Council report about his privatisation plans for the electricity industry, he will make a statement on the likely prices of electricity.

34. Mr. Hardy

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what action he proposes to take in relation to prices and consumer protection, following the privatisation of the electricity supply industry.

Mr. Michael Spicer

In future, electricity prices and standards of service will reflect the benefits both of competition and of the regulation of any remaining monopolies.

36. Mr. Wallace

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if there are any plans to set up a regulatory body in advance of the privatisation of the electricity supply industry.

Mr. Michael Spicer

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave earlier today to my hon. Friend the Member for Erewash (Mr. Rost).