§ 71. Mr. E. Smith (for Mr. E. J. Williams)asked the Secretary for Mines whether he has a further statement to make as regards the commercial success of the Billingham plant; and on what approximate date the Government will undertake the establishment of further plants to extract oil from coal in the special areas?
§ Dr. BurginI have been asked to reply. The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative, and as regards the second part I am not in a position to add anything to the answer given yesterday by my hon. and gallant Friend to the hon. Member for Stoke (Mr. E. Smith).
§ Mr. PalingCan the hon. Member say why there is this delay in making a statement? Will it be possible to make a statement in the near future?
§ Dr. BurginThe hon. Member will understand that I am answering for my hon. and gallant Friend. Perhaps it is desirable that the question should be put down again.