HC Deb 03 March 1937 vol 321 cc359-60
47. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher (for Mr. E. J. Williams)

asked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence whether the extraction of oil from coal is seriously considered as part of the Defence policy of the country; and what progress is being made in implementing such plants for Defence purposes?

Sir T. Inskip

Yes, Sir. I would refer to the reply which I gave on this subject to the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent (Mr. E. Smith) on 17th February.

Mr. Paling

Does that mean that the process referred to has been a success and that it has been decided to go on with it and to lay down plants at other places?

Sir T. Inskip

No decision as to other places has yet been made.

Mr. Alexander

Have the Government considered the extraction of heavy oil fuel from coal?

Sir T. Inskip

I will look into that.