§ 33. Mr. Whiteheadasked the Minister for Energy what is his estimate of the numbers of days' reserve stocks of oil and coal currently held ; and how it compares with the figures for 13th December 1971.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinThe Department of Energy issues estimates of oil and coal stocks in weekly statistical statements and I would refer the hon. Member to the copies available in the Library of the House. The level of oil stocks on 13th December 1971 is not known but on 30th November and 31st December 1971 stocks stood at 76 and 72 days' supply respectively. On 11th December 1971 the National Coal Board and the power stations held 10.8 and 16.3 million tons of coal respectively.
222W
§ 37. Mr. Sydney Chapmanasked the Minister for Energy if he will make a statement on the latest situation with regard to oil supplies, with particular reference to the distribution of petrol.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my hon. Friend the then Minister for Industry to the hon. Member for Gateshead, East (Mr. Conlan) on 10th December 1973. The position is unchanged.—[Vol. 866, c.7.]
§ 38. Mr. Hardyasked the Minister for Energy what were the stocks of oil in and en route to the United Kingdom during each week from 1st November ; and what is the level of oil reserves below which he will need to introduce rationing.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinIn the weeks ending 17th and 25th November and 1st December oil stocks stood at 64, 63, and 61 days' supply respectively. Estimates of oil stocks since then are in the weekly statistical statement issued by the Department of Energy, which is available in the Library.
The amount of oil en route to the United Kingdom varies very widely but over a long period of normal trade has averaged up to 30 days' supply. In present circumstances it would be misleading to give estimates on a week-to-week basis.
Any decision to introduce rationing would depend on supply prospects as well as stock levels at any given time.