HC Deb 05 March 1940 vol 358 cc177-8
10. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Secretary for Mines whether it is proposed to make use of the plant at Seaham formerly owned by "Modern Fuels,'' which is capable of producing oil and other by-products?

Mr. Lloyd

A Receiver has recently been appointed to safeguard the interests of the Treasury in this plant, and the question of what use can be made of it is at present under active consideration.

Mr. Shinwell

Does the hon. Gentleman not realise that this plant employs 1,500 men and that it can produce a very large quantity of oil and other residuals? Is it not desirable to come to an early decision as to whether the Government are to produce oil from coal?

Mr. Lloyd

I think the hon. Member is aware that this plant has had a chequered history, that it has not been in repair, and that a good deal of money is required to put it into operation. Everything possible will be done.

Mr. Shinwell

But how long will it take? Can the hon. Gentleman make up his mind?

Mr. Stephen

Can the hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that it will be done before the war ends?