§ 15. Mr. Thomas Coxasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what recent official discussions he has had with petrol companies operating in the United Kingdom on matters of mutual concern.
§ Mr. Tom BoardmanI and my colleagues keep in close touch with the oil industry.
§ Mr. CoxI am very pleased to hear that remark, but could the hon. Gentleman say whether that at this last meeting any discussion took place as to the conditions which are imposed by petrol companies on the purchase and sale of petrol and the conditions which they impose on garage proprietors? While I am certain they present difficulties to proprietors, they are certainly a disadvantage to the consumers, because motorists have to pay a much higher price for their petrol than otherwise they would need to 17 pay. Could he say whether any discussion took place on this point?
§ Mr. BoardmanThe hon. Gentleman will be aware that this has been the subject of a Monopolies Commission report and of discussions from time to time. The matter is being kept under close watch by the Government