Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of oil and gas developments on Marine Protected Areas.

The Offshore Petroleum Regulator for Environment & Decommissioning (OPRED) is responsible for regulating the environmental impact of offshore oil and gas operations in the UK. As part of its regulatory process, OPRED carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment, consulting with Statutory Nature Consultation Bodies, and will take into account the impact any project may have on the environment within marine protected areas.