Uchenna Izundu
International Editor
LONDON, Apr. 23 -- The UK Offshore Operators' Association (UKOOA) has dissolved and has been replaced by a new body—Oil & Gas UK—having a wider range of interests and members outside of UK operators.
Oil & Gas UK was launched in Aberdeen Apr. 23. It will lobby the government for a sustainable UK offshore industry by combining the voices of all involved players—from supermajors and large contractor businesses to small independents and those working in the supply chain. The oil and gas services industry has increased in economic importance as many operators struggle to secure rigs and equipment to develop their projects and service unavailability could jeopardize future UK North Sea production.
Jointly chairing Oil & Gas UK will be Dave Blackwood, BP PLC's North Sea business head, and Tom Smith, Nessco Ltd.'s managing director. The organization's chief executive will be Malcolm Webb, who held that role at UKOOA.
Blackwood said, "The combined perspective of operators, nonoperators, and contractors will give our activities greater depth and a more coherent voice for the industry, particularly in its conversations with the government."
Oil & Gas UK will meet with Secretary of State of Trade & Industry Alistair Darling, other government representatives from the UK and Scotland, and the trade unions to discuss issues of concern.
The new body will tackle issues such as production, exploration, health and safety, employment practices, policy advisory, skills and training, environment, economic and fiscal concerns, gas, and supply chain management.
Oil & Gas UK will operate from Aberdeen, London, and Brussels to develop and deliver policies across industry to secure the long-term health of the business, Webb added.
Contact Uchenna Izundu at [email protected]
