§ 63. Mr. Wolrige-Gordonasked the Secretary of State for Employment what estimate he has made of the new employment in the north-east of Scotland directly created by the start of the oil exploration season this year; and how many jobs will be created indirectly in service industries.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithMy Department estimates that over 350 workers in the North-East Planning Region of Scotland are now directly employed on exploration for, and the exploitation of, North Sea oil and a further 500 or so on various ancillary activities. It is difficult to assess future manpower requirements since developments are likely to be spread over a considerable period and firms' plans may be affected by unforeseen factors. However, various projects of which my 151W Department is aware are expected to provide a further 1,400 jobs. This figure could increase considerably if other projects which are now being considered materialise. In addition, the laying of the oil pipeline from Cruden Bay to Grangemouth should provide a substantial number of construction jobs.