§ 7. Mr. Eggarasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he plans to increase private sector participation into the purchase and resale of North Sea gas.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Energy (Mr. Norman Lamont)This area of policy is being considered. Meanwhile, it is open to the private sector to seek greater participation under the terms of section 8 of the Energy Act 1976, which has so far been little used.
§ Mr. EggarI am grateful to my hon. Friend for that reply. Is he aware that it is now some six months since his right hon. Friend first referred to the fact that this matter was being considered? Is it not about time that an announcement was made?
§ Mr. LamontThis is an extremely complicated matter. I am sure that my hon. Friend is aware that there are all sorts of delicate issues that need to be considered. A further point to be borne in mind is the statutory position of BGC and its obligation to supply. I assure my hon. Friend that this is not a simple question.
§ Mr. EasthamIf more middle men are introduced and participate in the resale of gas, will not the cost to industry and to consumers be increased as a result of their profit motive?
§ Mr. LamontThat is a point of view, but where a monopoly exists it is subject to proof. At the moment, there is considerable controversy about gas prices. It is therefore right that this should be examined.