HC Deb 17 February 1986 vol 92 cc32-3W
35. Mr. Baldry

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what action he is taking to encourage the United Kingdom offshore supplies industry to take advantage of export opportunities; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Experience in the North sea has qualified our offshore supply industry to compete worldwide. I believe there are substantial export opportunities. Accordingly, my Offshore Supplies Office has recently organised four conferences addressed by 12 leading oil companies and the World Bank. There was excellent attendance by the offshore supplies industry. It is now up to the United Kingdom supply industry to take advantage of the unique opportunity these conferences have presented.

38. Mr. Kennedy

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the current and projected levels of activity within the United Kingdom oil-related fabrication yards.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

United Kingdom oil related fabrication yards are engaged on some 181,000 tonnes of fabrication work. It is envisaged that another 90,000 tonnes of jacket and module work will be placed in 1986.