asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if it remains his policy, in relation to oil pollution, that the polluter pays.

Yes, Sir. [Interruption.]

Order. I understand that it is our last day, but perhaps complimentary remarks from below the Gangway and across the Floor of the House can wait for just a few hours. I understand the endearment that exists, but it should wait until the hustings.

Leaving party politics aside for a moment, is the Minister satisfied that the oil companies are subject to sufficient scrutiny of their activities in relation to oil pollution, bearing in mind what is going on in the Shetlands? Does the Minister agree that the owner of the oil should be identified, partly if not wholly, as the polluter and as such should carry a major share not only for the cure of the oil pollution but for its prevention?

I listened with astonishment to the opening remarks of the hon. Gentleman. I know that this is the day of atonement, as the hon. Gentleman said, but such a death-bed repentance is beyond my wildest dreams. Questions affecting the shipping activities of the oil companies which may cause pollution are for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State. I am glad to say that the oil industry has voluntarily developed the offshore pollution liability agreement under which local authorities may claim compensation for pollution damage and clearing-up costs arising from offshore oil exploration and production. In general, I agree with the tenor of the hon. Gentleman's question.

I cannot answer that question without notice, but I shall be glad to answer it in the next Parliament.