HC Deb 07 December 1961 vol 650 c1527
Q3. Mr. Ginsburg

asked the Prime Minister when he will complete his consideration of the representations of the hon. Member for Dewsbury regarding the publication of further statistical data on the oil industry.

The Prime Minister

Extensive statistical information on the oil industry is already published in the Annual Digests of the Ministry of Power. There are considerable difficulties in the way of publishing further data.

Mr. Ginsburg

Will the Prime Minister tell the Departments to get a move on? Is he aware that in the latest White Paper of October, 1960, comments are made on the state of the country's oil earnings but still no figures are published? What is the need for all the secrecy?

The Prime Minister

There are difficulties, about which I have been in communication with the hon. Gentleman; but the matter is being looked into.