§ 2.35 p.m.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her 'Majesty's Government whether they are aware that the Southampton Harbour Board have approved in principle the construction of oil jetties on the shore near Warsash for the use of a proposed new oil refinery, and whether they consider that in the interests of defence such installations should be spread rather than have two refineries in the same area; and further, if they are aware of the congestion of shipping in the deep water approaches to Southampton already caused by tankers awaiting discharge at the Fawley Refinery; and if they will state what steps have been taken to consult the large and important shipping interests in that area, and whether, and when, a public inquiry is to be held to enable the substantial opposition to these proposals to be heard.]
§ THE MINISTER WITHOUT PORTFOLIO (THF EARL OF MUNSTER)My Lords, since the noble Lord's Question was tabled, my right honourable friend the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation has been informed that the Southampton Harbour Board have agreed in principle to the establishment of a new oil jetty in Southampton Water, subject to the necessary consents being obtained. Any proposal for the erection of a new oil refinery requires an industrial development certificate and planning permission.
354 Up to date, neither has been applied for. If applications were made all the important matters which are raised in the noble Lord's Question would be taken into consideration.
LORD TEYNHAMMy Lords, while thanking the noble Earl for his reply, may I remind him of the large quantities of oil fuels which are already found on the beaches in the vicinity? Does he not think that an additional refinery would certainly increase them?
§ THE EARL OF MUNSTERMy Lords, I think that that is a question which must ultimately be decided when an industrial development certificate and planning permission are applied for.