Exhibit 23(b)


INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT




We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statements No.
33-50075 of Kansas Gas and Electric Company on Form S-3, No. 33-57435 of
Western Resources, Inc. on Form S-8 and Nos. 33-49467, 33-49505, 33-49553, and
33-50069 of Western Resources, Inc. on Form S-3 of our report dated January
29, 1993 appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kansas Gas and
Electric Company for the year ended December 31, 1994.




DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP


Kansas City, Missouri
March 28, 1995