asked the Secretary of State for Energy how many officials of his Department of the rank of principal or its equivalent and above have had practical experience outside the Civil Service working for (a) oil or petroleum production and supply companies, and (b) petroleum retailers; and if he will take steps to ensure that such practical experience is available in future, in the light of North Sea oil production.

Twenty-six officials of the rank of principal or its equivalent and above with such experience have been recruited or seconded to the Department of Energy. My right hon. Friend will continue to arrange for as many such appointments to be made as may be necessary.