§ Mr. Eadieasked the Secretary of State for Energy if, in the light of his Department's publication safety notice 2/86 on 19 March on temporary high pressure systems, he will discuss with the United Kingdom Offshore Operators Association the importance of its contracts for pipework being placed with companies that are well established in the industry and who employ personnel who are sufficiently trained and technically competent.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithOfficials from my safety inspectorate are in regular discussion with the United Kingdom Offshore Operators Association on all matters affecting safety. Safety notice 2/86 dated 19 March 1986 is of particular importance to all organisations who have a safety interest offshore and has been widely circulated.
The purpose of the safety notice was to bring to the attention of industry, including the UKOOA, the need to ensure that companies which undertake such work are capable and employ personnel who are sufficiently trained, given adequate instruction, and are competent.
This item will be on the agenda for a meeting between my officials and representatives of the UKOOA safety committee on Thursday 24 April.