§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of State for Defence to what extent the action of the Arabian States in cutting off and reducing oil and petrol supplies to Great Britain and countries within NATO affects defence problems ; if he will give as much information as is consistent with security on what action he has taken or intends taking to safeguard oil supplies for defence purposes in the event of a national or international emergency ; and whether he is satisfied that Great Britain's defence can be safeguarded against such action taken by the Arabian States.
§ Mr. KershawThe necessary steps have been, or will be, taken to maintain essential stocks, and the operational capabilities of Her Majesty's Forces should, therefore, remain unimpaired.