Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of the potential carbon emissions from the proposed Sea Lion oil field in the Falklands, what discussions they have held with the Falklands Islands government about those emissions, and what steps they are taking to ensure that the development of the oil field is environmentally safe, including minimising the risk of oil spills and other pollution.

While the United Kingdom retains responsibility for defence, security and international affairs, the Falkland Islands Government is otherwise responsible for hydrocarbon development and the relevant regulatory framework, which includes provision for safety and environmental protection. The Falkland Islands Government have followed their own domestic legal processes in relation to the Sea Lion oil field, including in respect of assessing environmental impact. The UK Government has facilitated access to UK expertise, when requested, and has provided assistance and external challenge where appropriate.