§ 2. General CROFTasked the President of the Board of Trade if all steps are being taken by His Majesty's Government to develop the production of oil from coal and shale deposits in this country; and whether he can report what progress has been made in developing this national industry?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of MUNITIONS (Mr. Kellaway)The Ministry of Munitions is taking every possible step to increase the production of oil from coal and shale deposits in the country and of creosote. The work is hampered by the shortage of labour, but very considerable progress has been made. I am advised that at present it is not desirable in the national interest to quote figures, but I am considering the possibility of giving further information of the progress which has been made in developing the production of oil from home sources.
§ Mr. BILLINGWould the hon. Gentleman say to whom anyone is to report in the event of any findings in this country?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThe information should be sent to me.