HC Deb 21 May 1957 vol 570 cc1032-4
51. Mr. Awbery

asked the Paymaster-General what approaches have so far been made to him by the group of oil companies contemplating the construction of a pipeline from the Persian Gulf to the Mediterranean via Turkey in regard to Government backing and a guarantee of supplies of material for this project; and what was his reply.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Power (Mr. David Renton)

None, Sir.

Mr. Awbery

In view of the fact that this project is a tremendous job for these people to undertake, will the Minister approach the countries concerned through which these pipes are to pass in order to get their permission before the work is proceeded with?

Mr. Renton

There are 17 oil companies concerned in this matter, and there are many great implications of a complicated kind, but it is for the oil companies themselves to decide their plan first and then to make any representation which they consider necessary to the Governments concerned, including the United Kingdom Government.

Mr. Awbery

Are we undertaking to provide the material for this work?

Mr. Renton

Yes. We hope that British skill and materials will be most fully used when these plans are put into operation.

Mr. Robens

Do we understand from the Parliamentary Secretary that a matter of some magnitude to the interests of this country is being proceeded with without any consultation with the Government?

Mr. Renton

No doubt conversations with the Government will take place at a later stage, if necessary. I would remind the right hon. Gentleman of what my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister said in the House on 1st April, when he pointed out that at the Bermuda Conference—to use my right hon. Friend's words— we considered the desirability of a policy by which projects of this kind "— that is the point covered by the Question— be given the additional protection of a treaty between the interested Governments to reinforce the usual agreements now made between the companies and the countries of transit"— [OFFICIAL. REPORT, 1st April, 1957 Vol. 568, c. 42.]