§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Energy what pressures were being brought by the EEC to control North Sea oil refinery capacity; if this matter is being referred to the European Court of Justice; what steps he is taking to offset this EEC pressure; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BennThe Community is in broad agreement that information about the general situation of the refining industry should be shared. We have, however, made it clear that there can be no question of Community control over our national oil refining policy, nor of any requirement upon us to consult specifically on individual decisions that Her Majesty's Government have to take on these matters. No question arises of referring the matter to the European Court.