HC Deb 28 February 2003 vol 400 c739W
Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what estimate she makes of(a) the potential CO2 diversion; and (b) the potential increase in oil recovery rates from the injection of CO2 into oil fields. [99790]

Mr Wilson

CO2 injection techniques have been successfully used in the United States to enhance oil recovery. If such processes can be found to be commercially viable on the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) then the Government, which aims to maximise economic recovery of UK hydrocarbon resources, would be keen to see these adopted where possible. Studies are being carried out by the Department on the feasibility of CO2 capture and storage and its use for enhanced oil recovery on the UKCS and findings are due to be published this Spring.