HC Deb 22 October 1973 vol 861 cc357-8W
35. Mr. Douglas

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on meetings between his Department, the nationalised industries and various oil companies regarding energy supplies in the United Kingdom, in the light of the present situation in the Middle East.

Mr. Peter Walker

We have been in close and continuous contact with the oil companies and others in the energy industries about the oil supply situation following the outbreak of the Middle East war.

Sir G. Nabarro

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and industry what steps he is now taking to deal with the onset of increasing energy shortages in 1974 and later.

Mr. Peter Walker

The Government have taken a number of major policy decisions designed to safeguard energy supplies. I keep the prospects under constant review in the light of developments at home and abroad and will take further decisions as need arises.