HC Deb 23 March 1981 vol 1 c210W
28. Mr. Viggers

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he is satisfied with the currently projected levels of production of North Sea oil and gas.

Mr. Gray

The forecasts of petroleum production announced by my right hon. Friend on 5 March—[Vol. 1000, c.153–54]—present a range of possible levels of production making allowance for the technical and geological problems which can delay North Sea operations. They present our best assessment of the likely outturn, taking into account the need for petroleum to be produced at levels consistent with good oilfield practice. The Government's aim is to prolong high levels of UKCS production to the end of the century.