§ 23. Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Energy how many rigs are currently engaged in exploration and development drilling in the United Kingdom north North Sea basin; how the figures compare with those for January and June of the last four years; and what is his estimate of anticipated trend.
§ Mr. John Smith27 mobile drilling platforms are at present operating. The figure has risen progressively over the last four years from two in January 1971. The number of platforms engaged in drilling is likely to remain at its present level for some years.