§ Mr. Sproatasked the Secretary of State for Energy what estimate he has made of petrol shortages in the north-east of Scotland; and, in view of offshore oil development, if he will take steps to remedy this shortage.
§ Mr. StrangSupply prospects have improved and my right hon. Friend has now lifted restrictions on deliveries of petrol. We are aware of the increase in demand in North-East Scotland but we are confident that it can now be met.
§ Mr. Wyn Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will take steps to ensure that there are adequate supplies of petrol available in holiday areas such as North Wales during the summer months.
§ Mr. StrangSupply prospects have improved and my right hon. Friend has now lifted restrictions on deliveries of petrol. We have no reason to believe that the normal distribution arrangements will not respond to increases in demand as they have in the past.
§ Mr. Lambieasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he proposes to renew the restrictions on deliveries of motor spirit and aviation gasoline.
§ Mr. VarleyIn view of the improvement in stocks and supply prospects for these fuels and of assurances from the oil companies that in current international supply circumstances they expect to be able to meet in full their commitments to their petrochemical customers, I have decided not to renew the restrictions on deliveries of motor spirit and aviation gasoline which expired at the end of April. A major reason for the improvement in stocks has been the welcome restraint exercised by motorists which has reduced demand to significantly below last year's level. The oil supply situation remains uncertain, and I strongly urge motorists to continue this restraint.