HC Deb 19 December 1946 vol 431 cc2158-9
38. Major Legge-Bourke

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power how much oil is expected to arrive in this country from Palestine during the six months commencing 18th November; what effect the recent terrorism in Palestine is estimated to have on this figure; and what steps are being taken to make good this deficiency.

Mr. Shinwell

Owing to the inevitable fluctuations in shipping and supply arrangements and refinery production, it is not possible to give accurate forward estimates of imports from any one source, but arrivals of oil in the United Kingdom from Palestine are expected to average about 34,000 tons per month over the next few months. Recent terrorism has had no effect on exports of oil from Palestine. The third part of the Question does not, therefore, arise.

Major Legge-Bourke

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how the 34,000 tons compares with the prewar figure?

Mr. Shinwell

If the hon. and gallant Member puts that question down, I will give him an answer.

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