Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State, Energy Security and Net Zero, if she will make it her policy to require UK oil and gas companies to (a) clean up legacy pollution and (b) adhere to the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, before divesting of their foreign subsidiaries.

The UK encourages a coordinated effort between national governments, oil and gas companies, and communities to bring an end to all forms of oil contamination. We continue to work with overseas governments to support initiatives to reduce the negative impact of oil and gas production overseas.

The UK Government has consistently supported the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and is clear that we expect UK businesses to comply with all applicable laws; identify and prevent human rights risks; and behave in line with the UNGPs.