Prime Minister David Cameron has suggested the UK Government could step in and take action to address concerns over helicopter safety in the North Sea oil and gas industry.
He revealed to the Press and Journal yesterday that he was waiting to see the results of an investigation into recent crashes – and would then consider “taking things further”.
The Conservative leader did not rule out ordering an independent public inquiry into the incidents, which have shaken the confidence of some offshore workers.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announced on Tuesday that it would examine safety issues, in conjunction with Norwegian and European regulators, while three helicopter operators have also teamed up to launch their own investigation.
The move follows five North Sea accidents in the last four years, including a crash off the coast of Shetland in August in which four people died.
In his first public remarks on the tragedy and its impact, Mr Cameron said he understood the concerns of the offshore workforce.
Speaking to the Press and Journal at Downing Street yesterday, he said: “I totally understand the concerns. I completely understand the whole issues of safety around the North Sea.
“I remember my first job in politics was at the same time as the terrible Piper Alpha disaster and I remember then the appalling loss of life and vital need to make sure this industry – which is a great industry, a huge bonus for our country – that this industry has to have the highest safety standards, and it does,” added Mr Cameron.
North-east politicians and trade union leaders have called for a full public inquiry into the safety issues, similar to the landmark investigation by Lord Cullen in the wake of the Piper Alpha disaster, which killed 167 men 25 years ago.
Asked if the UK Government could hold such an inquiry, or take any other measures to ease industry concerns, Mr Cameron said: “You know the first thing is that there is an investigation now under way.
“So let us let that investigation do its work and let us look at the results of that before taking things further.”
The transport select committee at Westminster has launched an inquiry into the North Sea crashes and ditchings, and it is understood that the MPs may consider recommending a wider investigation.
Frank Doran, Labour MP for Aberdeen North, has led calls for a Cullen-style public inquiry.
He said: “I think it is important that the government considers the situation, looks at the circumstances and makes a decision based on facts, rather than any knee-jerk reaction.
“But I think all the evidence is that we need to have a wide-ranging inquiry that looks at every aspect of the industry.
“I think the announcement from the CAA is helpful, but as they are the regulator they have to be scrutinised as well – nothing should be left out of the type of inquiry Lord Cullen and others have carried out.”
Jake Molloy, regional organiser for the RMT union, said: “Mr Cameron is entitled to his own opinions and thoughts.
“We hope he does get in line with the rest of us who want an independent inquiry.”
Trade body Oil and Gas UK said it was keen to participate in the CAA investigation and would also look at any issues that were not raised during the regulator’s probe.
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