§ 12. Mr. Greville Jannerasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he is satisfied with current supplies of energy for industry.
§ Mr. JannerTo what extent is the United Kingdom self-sufficient in oil? When does my hon. Friend expect us to be totally self-sufficient and not dependent on supplies from Iran or elsewhere overseas?
Dr. Cunningham-We produced approximately 60 million tonnes of oil last year. That is approximately half to two-thirds of our requirement. We expect to be self-sufficient in oil by 1980. We are already self-sufficient in coal and natural gas and as we have good nuclear technology the Government's policies will bring this country to a unique position in energy self-sufficiency—something which is the envy of other Western industrial nations.
§ Sir Bernard BraineIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the unique situation confronting my constituents? They alone in the Kingdom face an unacceptably high 13 risk from the concentration of gas, chemical and oil storage. Is he also aware that they are anxious to know what consideration is being given by the Government to ceasing the importation of liquefied gases into this dangerous and vulnerable area?
Dr. CunninghamYes. I shall draw the hon. Gentleman's remarks to the attention of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment.
§ Sir Bernard BraineDo it now.
§ Mr. Gwilym RobertsDoes my hon. Friend agree that industry is only at the beginning of its energy-saving programme? Will he encourage industry to look further at methods of energy saving which could drastically change the situation over the next two or three decades?
Dr. CunninghamYes. We are aware that there is great potential for further increases in energy conservation. It is interesting to note in that respect that our recent energy conservation scheme, sponsored by the Department of Industry, has attracted more than 10,000 inquiries from British industry.
§ Mr. RostIf the Minister is confident that supplies of oil will be satisfactory, despite cut-backs from Iran, can he estimate what effect any increased price of fuel oil will have on industry?
Dr. CunninghamIt is very difficult to make such estimates, as the hon. Member knows. I cannot hazard guesses as to what the outcome of the Iranian situation is likely to be. I am afraid that I cannot give an answer to that question at present.