§ 62. Lady Apsleyasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if it has yet been decided, in order to economise foreign exchange and on strategic grounds, to establish an oil refining industry in the United Kingdom during the post-war period.
Major Lloyd GeorgeA substantial oil refining industry already exists in this country, though the scale of its operations is at present limited by war exigencies. The question of post-war expansion of this industry is being kept under review in my Ministry, in the light of the important considerations mentioned by my hon. Friend.
§ Lady ApsleyMay I ask the right hon. and gallant Gentleman whether the West country will be considered in the future 1280 as being in a suitable position for this oil refining industry for the post-war period?