HC Deb 27 June 1977 vol 934 cc11-2W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Energy whether it is still his policy that two thirds of North Sea oil must be refined in the United Kingdom; and whether there will be a significant advantage for the United Kingdom to obtain the premium on low sulphur high quality crude oil by exporting a substantial part of it abroad.

Dr. J. Dickson Mabon

In his written reply of 6th December 1974 my right hon. Friend and predecessor explained the factors effecting the disposal of North Sea oil, including its low sulphur quality, and said that it would be reasonable to expect that up to two-thirds of the oil would be refined in the United Kingdom. That remains the Government's policy.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Energy, under his policy of requiring a substantial part of North Sea crude oil to be refined in the United Kingdom, whether he will continue to allow substantial imports of crude oil from abroad both for blending and maintaining the correct product balance.

Dr. J. Dickson Mabon

Yes. Some United Kingdom requirements can suitably be met by refining cheaper imported crudes.