§ Mr. Robert Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he has had with representatives of Britain's offshore supply vessel companies and crews concerning the effect of oil prices on their business; 444W what consideration has been given to reserving offshore oil supply traffic to British vessels; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MooreMy Department has regular contacts with the industry's representatives and my noble Friend the Minister responsible for shipping will be meeting a deputation from the British Offshore Support Vessels Association later this week for further discussions about the problems facing the United Kingdom support vessel fleet. Clearly there are a number of options open to us and I will be evaluating these in the light of developments in the negotiations in the European Community and our discussions with the industry.