asked the Minister of Supply if he will increase the supplies of poles and cable to enable some of the arrears of electricity services to be cleared up

I am not aware of a shortage of poles and cables for the distribution of electricity, but if the hon. Member will let me have details of the particular cases of shortage he has in mind I will look into them, in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Fuel and Power.

Is the Minister not aware that the shortage of these materials is causing a delay of up to two years in the electrification of rural areas?

No, Sir. There is certainly no shortage of these materials.

Will the Minister forward to the Hydro-Electric Board in Scotland a copy of his reply and see what they have to say?