§ Sir P. Dawsonasked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence what are the terms of reference of the committee he has appointed to examine the question of producing oil from coal; whether this committee will have the authority to retain experts to advise them and to examine and report what has been done in connection with this matter on the Continent, more particularly in Germany; and whether the committee will call evidence from any engineer or chemist who has held responsible positions in connection with any oil from coal plant operated abroad?
§ Sir T. InskipThe terms of reference of the committee are
To consider and examine the various processes for the production of oil from coal and certain other materials indigenous to this country, and to report on their economic possibilities and on the advantages to be obtained by way of security of oil supplies in emergency".1988W As regards the second part of the question, the committee has not been restricted in any way as to the manner in which it should carry out its work and I am quite satisfied to leave the points mentioned to the committee.