asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will make a statement regarding supplies of petroleum products in the light of the situation in the Middle East.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supplies of Petroleum Products.
Mr. Lemass
The supply position of petroleum products is being kept under constant review in the light of the situation in the Middle East. While I cannot, at this stage, predict future prospects, there is every indication that we, in common with other countries in Western Europe, will be faced with an immediate shortage of supplies of petroleum products. This will necessitate a curtailment of deliveries of petroleum products and I shall make an announcement in the matter immediately the extent of the shortage is known.
I may add that the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation has had under consideration for some months the possibility of a shortage of supplies arising out of the Middle East situation. The Council of the Organisation will this week be giving final consideration to proposals the object of which will be to ensure the equitable distribution of available supplies amongst member countries on the basis of fair shares for all. If, as I expect, these proposals are adopted, we shall be assured of a fair share of whatever supplies are available.
I am sure that the Government can rely on the full co-operation of all citizens in the carrying out of whatever measures are necessary to safeguard essential services by reducing consumption for non-essential purposes.