§ 27. Mr. SHINWELLasked the President of the Board of Trade whether any consideration has been given to the proposal to establish an oil quota for the purpose of benefiting the shale oil industry, and with what result?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI understand that a suggestion of this kind was made to the Board of Trade under the late Government and that it was found to involve many difficult problems. I have not had an opportunity of examining the question myself and I could not properly express any opinion until I had been able to give the matter careful and detailed consideration.
§ Mr. SHINWELLDoes the right hon. Gentleman propose to consider the matter shortly?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERYes, as shortly as I can, but clearly it would involve legislation even if the proposal were accepted. The hon. Gentleman knows it is a very difficult question. It would not be unfair to say that he himself probably considered it during the 15 months that he held the office.
§ Mr. SHINWELLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the proposal was 285 favourably reviewed by his predecessor and will he not, therefore, give a decision shortly?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERIt would be most improper for me to say, even if I knew, what was the opinion of my predecessor. The hon. Gentleman best knows that, and he ought to take proper steps if he wishes to ascertain what passed between him and his colleagues.
§ Mr. SHINWELLBut is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the subject has been considered by the Department and was in part submitted to the Prime Minister six weeks ago?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThat is a very different and a more proper question. Of course, on a matter of this kind, I shall consult with my Department, and to whatever decision the Government may come, the Government will take full responsibility.