§ 38. Mr. Harold Daviesasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what approach he has made to Pemex of Mexico to explore the possibilities of oil imports to Britain.
§ Mr. Aubrey JonesThe oil companies have already bought some cargoes from Pemex, and they can, I am sure, be relied upon to negotiate promptly with the Mexican oil authorities for the purchase of any further suitable quantities on offer.
§ Mr. DaviesCan the Minister give details of the quantities that the oil companies have already purchased and are likely to be able to purchase in the coming year? Does he not agree that, despite the waiving of the anti-trust laws in America, we cannot hope to get clear of our entire responsibilities as far as oil is concerned and we will still be 25 per cent. short, no matter how America helps us this year?
§ Mr. JonesAs to the first part of that question, I should require notice before I could give the details. As regards the second part, I agree that, despite the latest statement from Washington, the net shortfall in our oil supplies is likely still to be of the order of 25 per cent.