§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Secretary of State for Energy what steps Her Majesty's Government have taken during the last three years to ensure that technical equipment used to explore for and exploit petroleum in the North sea, including transportation pipelines, is constructed and operated in conformity with the best available technology.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithFrom the beginning of offshore oil and gas activity on the United Kingdom continental shelf the Department of Energy has, through continued discussion on develpment proposals prior to approval and by issuing guidance notes, encouraged operators to use the best technology.