HC Deb 26 July 1966 vol 732 cc1423-4
22 and 23. Earl of Dalkeith asked the

Minister of Power (1) what information he has about the development of petroleum gas for use by the Scottish Gas Board; when such gas will be supplied to domestic consumers; and what reduction in Scottish coal requirements this will involve annually when in peak production; and

(2) what effect he estimates the wider use of petroleum gas will have on reducing the cost of gas supplied to domestic consumers in Scotland.

Dr. Bray

The extension of supplies to Scotland and other parts of the country not at present connected to the existing natural gas line is being examined as part of the studies in hand on the utilisation of gas from the North Sea. Until these have been completed and more is known about the availability of North Sea gas, it is not possible to say how other fuels or the cost of gas supplies in Scotland would be affected.

Earl of Dalkeith

Is it not the case that experiments are being carried out in the use of petroleum gas? If natural gas and/or petroleum gas is brought into use can the hon. Gentleman say what effect on employment in Scottish mines it will have?

Dr. Bray

I apologise for any confusion in the reply. Natural gas is petroleum gas. I thought that the hon. Member was referring to liquefied petroleum gas which is sold by some gas boards. It is sold in Scotland and presumably increased supplies are possible.