HC Deb 14 May 1981 vol 4 c338W
Mr. Sproat

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will call a meeting with representatives of oil companies engaged in the North Sea to discuss the possibility of the unwitting recruitment by them of persons with criminal records, or of persons with possible connections with terrorist organisations; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gray

The Government are in touch with oil companies about their security arrangements, but it would not be in the national interest to disclose details. The decision whether or not to recruit personnel and when or where they are employed is a matter for the oil companies.

Mr. Sproat

asked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he is satisfied with the security arrangements made by oil companies recruiting personnel for North Sea oil installations, both offshore and inshore, to check on possible criminal records, and connections with Irish terrorist organisations, of persons they employ; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gray

No, I do not consider a meeting is necessary. Recruitment is a matter for individual oil companies, which take steps and seek advice as necessary to minimise the risks to which the hon. Member has drawn my attention.