Written questions

Oil and Natural Gas: Exploration

2026-05-28 · Department for Energy Security and Net Zero · 4809 · Official question

Neil Duncan-Jordan

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.

Answer

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 offshor...