Monograph describing the development and economic implications of natural gas and petroleum found in the North sea coastal waters of the UK - discusses the extent of these petroleum resources, their value as energy source and their economic impact relating to the balance of payments, investment, economic growth, power supply trends, energy policy, petroleum industry offshore installation development, etc. Charts, diagrams, graphs, references and statistical tables.

Since the 3rd edition of this publication, emphasis within the petroleum industry has shifted from exploration to appraisal and development of existing hydrocarbon resources. This change is reflected in this new 4th edition, which has been significantly expanded to accomodate additional material. The centrepiece of the book, however, remains a series of descriptions, in stratigraphic order, of the depositional history and hydrocarbon related rock units of the North Sea.

History of the discovery and extraction of oil and gas from the North Sea.

Written by the leading expert in the history of UK energy, this study provides new, in-depth analysis of the development of UK petroleum policies towards the North Sea based on full access to the Government’s relevant archives.