HC Deb 24 July 1973 vol 860 c461W
Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many drilling rigs for use in the North Sea are presently on order; what is the cost of each rig; and if he will name the building location in each case.

Mr. Anthony Grant

Of the semi-submersible drilling rigs under construction nine should arrive in the United Kingdom sector of the North Sea in 1973 and two in 1974. A further five are expected but contracts with oil companies have not been arranged. Eight of the 11 under contract are being built in the United States of America and one each in Germany, France and the Far East. Over 40 more semi-submersible and drill ships for use world wide are being built—one of these in the United Kingdom. Details of the costs of the rigs are not available.