§ 40. Mr. John H. Osbornasked the Secretary of State for Energy what consideration has now been given to limiting quotas of oil from third countries by the Council of Ministers; and what progress will be made in achieving greater independence in energy resources for the remainder of this century.
§ Mr. GrayThe EEC Energy Council has not discussed quota restrictions on oil imports from third countries. Member States have, however, agreed individual national targets for 1980 and 1985, within the Council's decision to set a Community net oil import objective of 472 million tonnes for the years 1980 to 1985. The Community and member States have also acted to promote energy conservation and the development of alternative energies through research and demonstration programmes. The vigorous energy conservation policies which are needed across 739W the board will be fundamental to reducing the Community's future dependence on imported oil.