An Unholy Scramble
1974 will see the first crude oil from the North Sea coming ashore. The first of the monster production platforms are being installed: the government is doing all it can to hasten the whole operation. But what is being staked in the North Sea oil race?
Already there have been great difficulties over environmental and planning issues. Now, as the operation gathers momentum, there is new concern - safety. Conditions in the North Sea are the worst oilmen have faced. Last winter one rig was pounded to pieces, another abandoned, and three drifted off-station.
With a project of such size and national importance there is bound to be a balance of risks. Tonight's Horizon examines whether undue haste is making this balance unacceptable.
Narrator PAUL VAUGHAN
Editor PETER GOODCHILD
Producer CHRISTOPHER RILEY