Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Mary Macleod Excerpts
Wednesday 11th September 2013

(11 years, 2 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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John Bercow Portrait Mr Speaker
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Order. Far too many noisy private conversations are taking place in the Chamber. I am sure that they will now end so that we can hear Mary Macleod.

Mary Macleod Portrait Mary Macleod (Brentford and Isleworth) (Con)
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7. What steps the Government are taking to protect workers in the oil and gas industry in Scotland.

Michael Moore Portrait The Secretary of State for Scotland (Michael Moore)
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As the shadow Secretary of State and my right hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Scotland acknowledged a few moments ago, the whole House will want to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter incident in the North sea and to the vital work of the rescue services. That is a reminder of the risks that are faced by those who work in the oil and gas industry, and, indeed, of their bravery. The Government remain committed to working with the industry to ensure the highest levels of health and safety for all its workers.

Mary Macleod Portrait Mary Macleod
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Does my right hon. Friend agree that work force engagement is crucial in restoring the confidence of offshore workers in the light of the recent helicopter crash off the coast of Shetland, which resulted in the deaths of four offshore workers?

Michael Moore Portrait Michael Moore
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My hon. Friend is entirely right. The industry has been quick to engage with all the stakeholders and, most importantly, with the work force. The Government will engage with all partners to ensure that the lessons of this tragic accident are learned properly.