HC Deb 10 December 1973 vol 866 cc2-4W
26. Mr. David Steel

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he is satisfied with the arrangements being made for oil and petrol distribution in the Borders.

Mr. Emery

Although there was a local supply problem following the cuts in fuel supply announced to the House on 19th November, the steps taken by my Department in conjunction with the oil industry should ensure that the arrangements made for the distribution of oil and petrol in the Borders are now satisfactory.

40. Mr. Palmer

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what guidance he gives to the Government-appointed directors of British Petroleum Limited in matters of policy relating to the present world shortage of oil supplies.

Mr. Peter Walker

I am in direct touch with the chairmen of major oil companies, including British Petroleum, about the oil supply situation.

55. Mr. John Wells

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has had from the Ship and Boat Builders' National Federation about the supply of fuel oil both for work and pleasure boats and to hire fleet operators.

Mr. Tom Boardman

On 7th December I received a letter from this federation in which it has raised a number of points concerning fuel supplies. These points are being actively considered.

Mr. Elystan Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will discuss with the farming unions difficulties experienced by farmers, especially in Wales, in obtaining adequate oil supplies.

Mr. Tom Boardman

I have received no reports that farmers in Wales have encountered special problems in regard to supplies of oil. The operation of agricultural tractors, machinery and equipment in the production of food is a priority use and the steps already taken by my Department in collaboration with the oil industry should ensure that adequate supplies of oil are available to meet the essential needs of all farmers, including those in Wales.

Mr. John Wells

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what proposals he has for ensuring supply of fuel to private work and pleasure boat owners, and also to hire fleet operators, in view of their importance to tourism.

Mr. Tom Boardman

The arrangements that my Department has made in conjunction with the oil industry should ensure that all oil users are now obtaining reasonable supplies of fuel.

Mr. Beith

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether, in view of the effects on rural community life of the closure of village halls which have only electric heating, he will consider allowing electric heating to be used on a restricted basis outside times of peak demand for social and cultural activities in communities where no public building with alternative means of heating is available.

Mr. Tom Boardman

I share the hon. Member's concern for the rural communities, but the demand for electricity is heavy throughout the day and well into the evening. In the present situation there is no scope for any relaxation.

Mr. Rost

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he is satisfied that neither oil companies nor distributors are witholding petrol and oil supplies to retailers and consumers in anticipation of a price increase.

Mr. Tom Boardman

My Department is working closely with the oil companies to solve the problems created by the shortage of oil and I am satisfied that the companies are not withholding supplies. A contributing factor to the present difficulties over petrol in some areas may be that retailers are conserving stocks but this could be for reasons unconnected with a possible price increase. I am looking into this, and if my hon. Friend has any evidence that he would care to submit to me I will consider it.