ABSTRACT
In the field of public utilities some spectacular changes have occurred and others are threatened. Before the Second World War there were ninety-five local authorities operating motor-bus and motor-coach services, in addition to sixty-seven tramway and thirty-nine trolley-bus undertakings, most of which were in the hands of borough councils. The Labour Party in its 1964 Election Manifesto announced its intention of nationalizing the water supply industry. Proper consideration of local conditions is essential if the electricity supply industry is to be developed on economical and efficient lines and suitable provision made for meeting individual needs. The speaker dismissed the idea that advisory committees are an adequate means of bridging the gap between municipal authorities and independent public corporations. The gas boards cover very large regions and are subject to a limited degree of co-ordination and supervision by the Gas Council.
