UK North Sea’s new regulator appoints chair

Sir Patrick Brown has been appointed as the chair of the new independent regulator for the North Sea oil and gas industry. The Oil and Gas Authority – which was […]

Sir Patrick Brown has been appointed as the chair of the new independent regulator for the North Sea oil and gas industry.

The Oil and Gas Authority – which was announced by the UK Government last year – is responsible for ensuring explorers squeeze out as much oil and gas out of Britain’s North Sea as possible.

He has held various positions in the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Department of the Environment and was Permanent Secretary for the DfT from 1991 to 1997.

He was also involved in the creation of the regulators Ofwat and Office of Rail Regulation (ORR).

Energy Secretary Ed Davey said: “Sir Patrick brings a wealth of experience to this role and his appointment is another step forward in getting the OGA up and running at a crucial time for the North Sea industry which plays a vital role in protecting the UK’s energy security.”

The first three directors have already been announced and further recruitment is ongoing.

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