§ 37. Mr. Edwin Wainwrightasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he is satisfied with the present arrangements for the protection of oil rigs; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. MabonThe protection of offshore installations is primarily the responsibility of the operators who receive advice, guidance and, as appropriate, assistance and support from the police, the armed forces and the Department of Energy. Regular surveillance and deterrent patrols are carried out by Island class surface ships and Nimrod aircraft, covering all installations on the United Kingdom continental shelf. In addition, other elements of Her Majesty's forces are available at 551W short notice to deal with all types of emergencies if called upon to do so by the civil power. On the related matter of security, I refer my hon. Friend to the written answer given to the hon. Member for Haltemprice (Mr. Wall) on 5 February.—[Vol. 962, c. 33.] All protection arrangements are kept under regular review.