asked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he or the Minister of State during his recent visit to Mexico discussed the exchange of heavy Mexican crude oil for North Sea light oil and examined the prospect of developing with Mexican enterprises the mining of local uranium resources.

During my recent visit, and on other occasions, I have discussed in principle an exchange of Mexican crude for North Sea crude to which I see no objection. If such an exchange occurs it is likely to be negotiated between BNOC and PEMEX the Mexican State oil company. They have already had some discussions.As regards uranium, we are of course interested in diversifying our sources of supply. Our interest has been made clear to the Mexicans should they decide to develop their uranium resources.