HC Deb 26 May 1954 vol 528 cc397-8
43. Mr. Grimond

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will make a further statement on the progress of the negotiations over Persian oil.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

Discussions in Tehran have resulted in a full exchange of views between the parties concerned, and it is now necessary that the three negotiators representing the eight oil companies should consult their principals. The consultations will take place here shortly, and it is contemplated that the negotiations in Tehran will be resumed as soon as possible thereafter.

Mr. Grimond

Can the hon. Gentleman confirm that, on the whole, the negotiations are likely to prove successful and that there are no major outstanding points?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I am not prepared to make any forecast about the outcome of the negotiations at the moment. There has been a full exchange of views. I should like to add that the negotiations have taken place in a most cordial atmosphere. It is now for the oil companies to consult together on the difficult problems which are still outstanding.

Mr. Stokes

Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that all proper steps have been taken in these negotiations to preserve the rights of consumer interests? Reports would indicate that only vultures are gathered there. Where do the consumers come in?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

That is certainly untrue. I should like to see that Question on the Order Paper.

Mr. Erroll

Will my hon. Friend make certain that in the discussions full regard is paid to the need for proper compensation for the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company for loss of assets?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I should not like to comment on any details at this moment.

Mr. Harold Davies

Will the hon. Gentleman make available to the House a White Paper on these discussions and negotiations when they come to some conclusion so that the House may have a short debate on the subject?

Mr. Dodds-Parker

We will see about that in due course, but I cannot undertake anything like that at this stage.