HC Deb 24 July 1961 vol 645 c8
5. Mr. Woof

asked the Minister of Power what volume of liquid methane has been imported during the past 12 weeks.

Mr. Wood

None, Sir.

Mr. Woof

Is the Minister prepared to make a statement to the House on the proposal sent to him by the Gas Council? Further, could he define as clearly as possible what expectations his Department has received from the National Coal Board of the result of importing methane gas produced by coal in order to benefit both industries?

Mr. Wood

This is a complicated matter. As the hon. Gentleman knows, I have received proposals from the Gas Council which I am considering. The competitive ability of the Coal Board to produce coal for the making of gas is one of the matters which I am taking into consideration. What I have promised to do is to make a statement to the House when I have reached a decision and to tell the House of the factors on which my decision was based.

Mr. Gunter

Is it likely that a statement will be made on this subject before the House rises?

Mr. Wood

I think it most unlikely.