21. Mr. Robert HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what discussions he has had with the United Kingdom Offshore Operators Association and relevant trade unions on the transfer of the safety responsibility of the Department of Energy to the Health and Safety Executive following the publication of the Cullen report into the Piper Alpha disaster.
§ Mr. HowardResponsibility for offshore safety remains with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Energy until arrangements for an efficient transfer are completed. He has indicated that he is willing to have discussions with all those with something to contribute to improving North sea safety. I will adopt a similar approach. In addition, the structure and well-established procedures of the Health and Safety Commission will ensure that all relevant interests are consulted.