HC Deb 11 June 1952 vol 502 cc196-7
36. Mr. Philips Price

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in view of the purchase by a United States firm of 3 million tons of oil from the National Iranian Oil Company, what steps will be taken to protect British interests in this oil.

Mr. Nutting

So far as Her Majesty's Government are aware, no such purchases have been made.

There have been certain reports that United States Companies have made contracts with the National Iranian Oil Company for the purchase of oil from South Persia, but as is, I think, well known, Her Majesty's Government regard the products of the oil industry in South Persia as the property of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company and all practical steps will be taken to prevent any attempt on the part of the Persian Government to dispose of this oil in any manner to third parties.

Mr. Price

Can we take it that these rumours are merely attempts on the part of the Persian Government to boost their own prestige at home?

Mr. Nutting

I do not think I can altogether confirm that suggestion of the hon. Gentleman, because the Persian Oil Commission have themselves denied these rumours.