§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the discovery of a defective gas detection system, defective fire alarm, and one fire pump out of action on the West Stadrill rig; what estimates he makes of the likelihood of such defects on other rigs; and what additional action is being taken by the inspectorate over and above the normal schedule of inspections, to uncover and prevent such defects in safety systems on rigs.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonMy safety directorate undertook an inspection of the mobile drilling rig West Stadrill on 31 January and 1 February 1989. The inspector found major safety deficiencies and ordered the immediate cessation of well-drilling activities.
Prime responsibility for safety rests with the owner and operator of an installation. However, my inspectors will continue to be vigilant in this vital area of safety and to rigorously enforce the strict safety regulations which apply offshore.