§ 4. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Fuel and Power what is the likely increase in the supply of oil from the United States of America and other American sources during the next two months; approximately, what will be the increased costs in those imports; and to what extent an early increase in the supply of oil from South-East Asian areas can be secured.
§ Mr. Aubrey JonesThe supplies that can be made available to Europe from sources in the Western Hemisphere and elsewhere are at present being assessed by the O.E.E.C. with the co-operation of the U.S. Government and with the assistance of a group representing the principal suppliers. Until this review is completed, no firm estimate of the quantity or cost of additional imports from overseas sources to Europe can be made, but it is improbable that the level of European supplies can be raised to more than 75 per cent. of the normal rate in the next two months. Because of the general shortage of tankers it would not be advantageous to bring more oil on the long haul from South-East Asia.
§ Mr. SorensenDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think it would be expedient and useful if he were to publish from time to time some details on the progress made in acquiring the oil we need?
§ Mr. GowerMight I ask my right hon. Friend in this connection whether there 910 are any plans for the increased investigation of the availability of larger supplies of oil in the Commonwealth?
§ Mr. JonesAll available sources are being combed and explored, but I am afraid that this aspect of the outlook is not too promising.
§ Mr. RankinCan the Minister say why he is not then encouraging the production of oil from the shale mines in Scotland?
§ Mr. JonesThe shale oil mines in Scotland contribute about one-quarter of 1 per cent. of this country.