§ 58. Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Energy what study his Department has made of the work carried out by the Government of Brazil on the production of alcohol from cane sugar for fuelling cars; whether he will initiate research into the possibility of producing alcohol from beet sugar and potatoes in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MooreMy Department's energy technology support unit is aware of the Brazilian national alcohol programme.
The most recent developments in this programme were presented at an international symposium held in London earlier this month at which my Department was represented. In the United Kingdom, research studies are already in progress to evaluate the potential for using beet sugar, potatoes and cellulose-based materials for alcohol production. The Government are also keeping under active review the work being undertaken abroad with a view to carrying out complementary studies where appropriate.