HC Deb 11 March 1931 vol 249 cc1180-1
66. Rear-Admiral BEAMISH

asked the Secretary for Mines what plan or proposal is now before the Government whereby the national consumption of heavy and light fuel oils can be met by the treatment of British coal?

Mr. SHINWELL

The Government is keeping the subject of extraction of oil from coal under constant review, but I have at present no new specific proposal to report to the House.

Rear-Admiral BEAMISH

Can the hon. Gentleman give the House an assurance that no question of prejudice as to the ownership of coal measures will be allowed to stand in the way of this great national project?

Mr. SHINWELL

I can.