§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Energy how many companies have notified the Government that they are re-examining their development programmes in the North Sea, in view of the Government's current fiscal regime.
§ Mr. GrayIn general I would expect any company contemplating a North Sea development to ensure that it had been appraised in the light of the latest circumstances, including the current tax regime. Two licence operators representing 22 other companies have indicated to me that they are reviewing development plans for two specific projects since the current fiscal regime was announced on 10 March. The Government remain determined to maintain the momentum of activity on the United Kingdom Continental Shelf.