§ 59. Mr. Thomas Coxasked the Secretary of State for Energy what plans he has to introduce petrol rationing; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David HowellI refer the hon. Gentleman to the statement that I made in the House on Monday 11 June, in which I discussed the matter of rationing of oil supplies, which includes the rationing of petrol.
§ Mr. Bestasked the Secretary of State for Energy, in the light of the current policy of major petrol suppliers which causes withdrawal of supplies to rural areas, if he will consult with the suppliers to ensure that a commitment is made by them to maintain the supplies of petrol and diesel fuel to such areas.
§ Mr. GrayRural areas have in many cases felt the shortage of petrol more than other areas because they have fewer filling stations, but the oil companies are conscious of the needs of rural areas and I am confident they will seek to keep them supplied on an equitable basis. The underlying shortfall in supplies of some 5 per cent. does, of course, mean that everyone must economise in the use of diesel fuel and petrol.