§ Mr. Craigenasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he has had discussions with oil companies involved in North Sea exploration about the corrosion of rigs and other fixtures and the health and safety factors involved.
§ Mr. GrayCorrosion of rigs and their equipment has been and is being discussed by my officials with industry, certifying authorities and other experts. All aspects including health and safety are considered.
§ Mr. Craigenasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he has had any discussions with oil companies engaged in North Sea exploration concerning the condition of the seabed on completion of the oil extraction, and on any longer-term geological repercussions on the coastline off Scotland and England; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GrayNo. However my Department has commissioned the Institute of Geological Surveys to map the sea-bed over the whole of the United Kingdom continental shelf including that in the vicinity of the offshore oil and gas installations as part of its study on seismic activity. No sea-bed subsidence or coastal erosion is anticipated to result from the exhaustion of oil or gas fields.