§ 72. Mr. G. Macdonaldasked the Secretary for Mines the total production of oil from coal in Great Britain during the latest year for which figures are available; what proportion is this of the total oil consumption in this country, and what steps are being taken to increase the home production of oil?
§ Captain CrookshankThe latest figures available are those for 1937, and particulars will be found on pages 18 and 19 of my last annual report. For motor spirit the home production represented about 7 per cent. of the home consumption. As figures are not available of the amount of heavy oils which are used as fuel, the percentage figure for these oils cannot be stated, but it would be negligible. As regards the last part of the question, the Finance Act of last year implemented the principal recommendation of the Falmouth Committee which was designed to encourage further development work.
§ Mr. MacdonaldIs the Minister satisfied that the Government cannot do anything more than is being done to encourage this industry?
§ Captain CrookshankWe discussed that question at considerable length on the Finance Bill last year, and a preference was given to home-produced oil.