§ 40. Mr. Derek Pageasked the Minister of Power how soon he expects the reports of investigations into the loss of the dril- 4W ling rig "Sea Gem"; and whether he will make a statement regarding progress.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeThe investigation will take the form of a public inquiry by an independent Commissioner assisted as necessary by expert assessors. I cannot yet say when it will be opened. The necessary preliminary investigations, including the examination of any equipment recovered from the scene of the accident, may take some months.
§ 41. Mr. Derek Pageasked the Minister of Power what delay is likely to occur in the development of North Sea gas exploration following the "Sea Gem" disaster.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeNo precise estimate is possible, but I understand the British Petroleum Company is considering an alternative method of exploiting its discovery, which should keep any delay to a minimum.