§ Mr. Woodcockasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will estimate the level of investment required in the United Kingdom refining industry between now and 1989 to meet the requirements to produce unleaded petrol; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithThe United Kingdom refining industry will probably need to invest somewhat over £200 million to move from petrol containing 0.15 grams per litre to unleaded petrol. The investment will be spread over many years. It is not possible to apportion this expenditure 91W between that which has already been incurred, that which will be incurred between now and 1989 and that which will be incurred thereafter.
§ Mr. Woodcockasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will estimate the total energy penalty in terms of barrels of crude oil which will be paid by the United Kingdom following the decision to introduce unleaded petrol.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithThe decision to introduce unleaded petrol may eventually increase crude oil consumption in the United Kingdom by perhaps 12,000 barrels a day when conversion from leaded petrol is completed.