Mr. WEBB:

With regard to the first part of the question, the extent of the known resources of the world in oil is not sufficiently defined to enable me to give exact information. As regards the second part, the decision of the Government to retain their holding in the Anglo-Persian Oil Company is an indication of their desire to maintain an independent source of oil supplies. As regards the third part, I would refer the hon. Member to the replies given to similar questions by the hon. Member for Springburn on the 12th February, and by the hon. Member for Acton on the 2nd April.