§ 25. Mr. JackTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement regarding the health of the offshore supplies industry following the oil price slump of 1986.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThe health of the offshore supplies industry has recovered significantly from the oil price slump of 1986. Drilling activity has risen to 1983 levels, the third highest level recorded, with a consequent upturn in the workload of orders for the service sector in general. However, I am conscious of the difficulties currently being experienced by the fabrication industry. Nevertheless, my Department approved 13 projects in 1987 and these should provide considerable work opportunities for the fabrication industry in the future.