HC Deb 18 November 1974 vol 881 c886
18. Mr. Jessel

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what proportion of British oil supplies is shipped round the Cape of Good Hope.

Mr. Deakins

About three-quarters by weight of crude and partly-refined oil imports in the first nine months of this year.

Mr. Jessel

As the security of these oil supplies remains essential to the maintenance of full employment and living standards in Britain, will the Government put the British national interest first and above any emotional prejudice in these matters and make sure that these oil supplies are adequately protected by continuing to maintain a naval base at the Cape?

Mr. Deakins

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence said on 30th July in a Written Answer: The need for adequate measures to protect British shipping is being taken fully into account in the general review of defence commitments and capabilities."—[OFFICIAL REPORT, 30th July 1974; Vol. 878, c. 109.] That still holds good.