12. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Fuel and Power, in view of the increasing dependence of farmers throughout the country on tractors requiring petrol, tractor vapourising oil and diesel oil, what steps he is taking to increase the storage capacity throughout the country; and whether, in view of the limitation of the tank capacity at the docks, steps will be taken to assist and facilitate the installation of tanks for a year's supply on farms using tractors throughout the country.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerAs the hon. Member is, I am sure, aware, the oil companies provide the bulk storage which they require to enable them to maintain their supplies to those who buy their oil. I am now considering measures to supplement their storage where, in case of a national emergency, extra capacity might be required. These measures will be designed to meet the needs of all essential users of oil, including farmers.
Mr. De la BèreDoes the Minister realise that in the event of a national emergency, owing to the fact that there are hardly any farm horses left, cultivation will be absolutely at a standstill if abundant supplies are not made available?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerYes, Sir, that is very much in my mind, and that is why I am considering supplementary storage.