HC Deb 16 June 1958 vol 589 c663
24. Mr. Peyton

asked the Paymaster-General what he estimates will be the oil imports into the United Kingdom in the years 1960, 1965 and 1970.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Power (Sir Ian Horobin)

It is impossible to make reliable forecasts for so many years ahead but, as my hon. Friend will know, net imports of petroleum into the United Kingdom have roughly doubled in the last decade and it is reasonable to expect further expansion in the future.

Mr. Peyton

Has my hon. Friend satisfied himself that adequate steps are being taken to provide the harbour and dock facilities which will be necessary if we are to be able to use the fast and large tanker of the future? Will he also take all the proper steps that he can take to ensure that British ships are in a position to make use of these facilities when they are provided?

Sir I. Horobin

I think all these matters are not matters for the Ministry of Power but for the Ministry of Transport.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Can my hon. Friend assure us that there will not be a percentage increase in dependence for oil supplies on any one group in any one area at the same time?

Sir I. Horobin

All crystal-gazing is dangerous, and to be as explicit as that ten years ahead does not commend itself to me.