Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he will make an assessment of the potential effect of Shell's sale of its North Sea field assets on the sustainability of UK jobs in that area.

The government does not intend to provide commentary on specific commercial decisions in the North Sea.

The government is committed to making the most of the UK’s oil and gas resources. In support of this, the government has announced substantial fiscal reform in the last few years, including significant tax cuts. This will ensure oil and gas companies are well-placed to invest in this vital industry, extend the life of existing assets and safeguard jobs.