§ Mr. Millanasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action has been taken by him on the recommendation of the IMEG report on North Sea oil that there should be assistance to a selected shipbuilder for the establishment of facilities to construct semi-submersible drilling rigs.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantAssistance on the usual terms is available under the Industry Act for any potentially viable scheme to enable a shipbuilder to enter this market but, so far, no considered application of this kind has been received.
§ Mr. Millanasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action has been taken to meet the recommendation of the IMEG report on North Sea oil for 466W the establishment of a wholly British offshore drilling capacity.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantFour British firms have taken steps without Government assistance to involve themselves in offshore exploration drilling activities and another has secured development drilling contracts. Discussions with a number of firms about possible Government assistance are in hand. If any other firms wish to apply for assistance I hope they will do so without delay.