HC Deb 26 February 1990 vol 168 c97W
Mr. Watson

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy when he last met trade union representatives involved in the offshore industry; and what matters were discussed.

Mr. Peter Morrison

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 18 December 1989 at column99.

Mr. McAllion

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he has received any representations concerning trade union representation for offshore workers in the North sea.

Mr. Peter Morrison

The Department received a number of representations from hon. Members and others and consulted trade unions fully before the Offshore Installations (Safety Representatives and Safety Committees) Regulations 1989 were made. The regulations came into force on 18 September 1989.

I have also been in correspondence with MSF on trade union recognition offshore which is a matter for employers and the particular trade unions concerned. I will he meeting members of MSF and its parliamentary committee soon.