Oil and Natural Gas: Exploration
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if his department will take legislative steps to increase the £50,000 cap on fines for oil spills during oil and gas operations.
Answered by Michael Shanks
The Government expects offshore oil and gas operators to meet the highest environmental standards and supports appropriate enforcement action where non-compliance occurs. A range of enforcement powers is already available in respect of breaches of offshore environmental requirements, including civil sanctions and, where appropriate, prosecution. The Government keeps the operation of the regulatory regime under review to ensure that it remains effective, proportionate and capable of protecting the marine environment. The priority is to ensure that the existing regime operates as an effective deterrent and secures compliance with relevant offshore environmental obligations.
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