Hendry: Why UK opposes EU plans for oil regulations

The UK Government does not want the EU to take full control of oil and gas operations, the Energy Minister said today. His comments come as the European Commission (EC) […]

The UK Government does not want the EU to take full control of oil and gas operations, the Energy Minister said today.

His comments come as the European Commission (EC) proposed the new EU regulations, which have been widely opposed by UK oil and gas industry.

The Government believes the UK has already got a good regime in place and it is not necessary to bring changes to the country’s legislation.

Charles Hendry, who addressed delegates at a seminar organised by trade body Oil & Gas UK today said although the UK welcomes the EC’s decision to improve offshore safety and environmental protection, he is strongly against them bringing in a new ‘Regulation.’

He said: “A Regulation will require significant amendments to be made to UK legislation. My view is that a Directive would be a better approach. It will allow each Member State to choose the most appropriate legislative regime, while also ensuring high standards in the oil and gas industry can be equally enforced across the Union.”

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