HC Deb 19 December 1956 vol 562 cc193-4W
152. Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he is aware that many British tankers are still being used for the conveyance of oil from the Middle East to the United States of America; and if he will take steps to ensure that during the present emergency these tankers are used for the shipment of oil to the United Kingdom.

Mr. Watkinson

I understand that very few British tankers are being used for the conveyance of oil from the Middle East to the United States of America. Whether it would be of advantage to reroute tankers on these and other routes is being considered urgently by the appropriate international authorities.

153. Mr. Lee

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether Her Majesty's Government will seek agreement with other west European, or interested North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Powers, in the production of an international tanker fleet appropriate to their future requirements.

Mr. Watkinson

Future tanker requirements are at present being studied by Her Majesty's Government in consultation with the oil industry. The international nature of the problem will certainly call for close consultation with other interested Governments both in and outside Europe.

154. Mr. Lee

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation to what extent, in enlarging our oil tanker fleet, it is the policy of Her Majesty's Government to encourage investment in large, fast tankers for the Cape route, or the smaller type capable of passage through the Suez Canal.

Mr. Watkinson

Yes. It is certainly the policy of Her Majesty's Government to encourage investment in large, fast tankers as well as the smaller types of vessels. Both are equally essential for the world-wide movement of oil.