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Mr. Sillars
asked the Secretary of State for Energy what is his estimate of the boost to refining capacity and jobs within the United Kingdom as a direct result of North Sea oil; and what proportion of this has been accounted for in Scotland.
Dr. J. Dickson Mabon
Existing refining capacity in the United Kingdom will be more than enough to meet the demand for refined oil products both at home and for export for some years to come. There has therefore been no increase in refining capacity as such as a direct result of North Sea oil, although refineries in the East coast of Scotland and Wales are better placed to make fuller use of their existing capacity. This will not significantly affect employment.