§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Energy what progress has been made to date between the Government, the oil companies and the trade unions about permanent trade union representation on offshore rigs.
§ Dr. J. Dickson MabonMy right hon. Friend and I recently held a meeting with the trade unions and oil companies on this matter. Arrangements for recognition of union representation of workers offshore will be covered by the extension to offshore areas in June of the relevant sections of the Employment Protection Act 1975. The Government are also discussing with the oil companies and trade unions arrangements to ensure access for trade union officials designated by the Inter Union Committee in Aberdeen to offshore installations.