asked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is satisfied with the present rate of progress in extending electricity supplies to farms; and what steps he is taking to obtain a higher priority for the provision of electricity for agricultural purposes.

It is the duty of the area electricity boards to secure, so far as is practicable, the development and extension to rural areas of supplies of electricity. Owing to the shortage of generating capacity and the limited supply of labour and materials available, it is not possible at present to supply electricity to all who want it, but I have asked the area electricity boards to give priority to farms and farm workers' cottages in cases where the county agricultural executive committees certify that the installation of electricity will assist increased food production. I am satisfied that the best possible progress is being made in supplying electricity to farms.