HC Deb 29 November 1917 vol 99 c2215
45. Mr. KING

asked the Prime Minister whether he will now announce his intentions as to the Petroleum (Production) Bill; and whether, to meet the emergency and avoid opposition, he will proceed with the Bill dropping the proposal to create royalties?

57. Mr. DUNDAS WHITE

asked whether the Government proposes to proceed with the Petroleum (Production) Bill; and, if not, whether they will take steps to enter on land and bore for petroleum under the Defence of the Realm Acts, leaving questions of compensation to be settled by the Defence of the Realm Losses Commission?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)

I am still unable to make any statement on this subject.

Mr. KING

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is about five weeks ago or more since this Bill was introduced, and are we always to be waiting?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have no knowledge as to the number of weeks, but I do know that during the interval we have had more important things to do.

Mr. CHANCELLOR

Is the production of petroleum still considered to be necessary?

Mr. BONAR LAW

We certainly consider it to be desirable or we should not have introduced the Bill.