HC Deb 08 March 1973 vol 852 cc199-200W
Mr. Grimond

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps are being taken to increase the payments to the Exchequer from North Sea oil and gas following the Report of the Committee of Public Accounts.

Mr. Higgins

I would refer the right hon. Member to the Budget Statement of my right hon. Friend on 6th March.

Mr. Grimond

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will arrange for a proportion of the payments to the Exchequer from North Sea oil and gas to be paid into a fund for the benefit of the areas most directly concerned and for some insurance against the consequences of pollution.

Mr. Higgins

No. But we shall continue to look after the needs of these areas.