SUBJECT MATTER OF REGULATIONS (Hansard, 14 July 1971)

§ Mr. Ogden

The appearance of such a Motion as this on the Order Paper in the names of my hon. Friends and myself would normally be a reasonable precaution by the Opposition. It is certainly not our intention to take any great time over this stage, but I believe that the Bill should have more than a formal third reading.

This is a very useful Bill. It was prepared by the former Administration and was rightly taken over by this Government. At one and the same time the Bill is a memorial to the past, for it came to the of the tragic loss of life in December, 1965, when the Sea Gem collapsed and sank into the North Sea, and to those who then lost their lives. The Bill is a tribute to those who took part in the inquiry and to those who drafted the Bill. It shows that Parliament can react to tragedy, and produce something of value. It means hope for the future, for it is a Bill which provides opportunity. Those who took part in its presentation are entitled to some quite pride in the Bill. Above all, the Bill has changed in its progress from a piece of merchant navy legislation, valid for a time only, to a piece of industrial legislation valid for the next 50 or 100 years. We wish it success, and we will watch for the regulations made after consultation with the industry.

This is a good Bill, improved in Committee by both sides and by those who helped to draft it. We take the opportunity to thank the industry, and particularly the Shell Company and the B.P. Company, for affording Members an opportunity to visit the installations and see the work done. We met many who came forward and helped us in our deliberations. We take the opportunity to wish success to all who take part in this industry off our coasts.