Written questions by Madders.

What steps he is taking to support the refineries sector while oil supplies are disrupted due to military conflict in the Middle East.

The Government recognises the critical role UK refineries are playing in ensuring our fuel security. The Government continues to monitor the evolving situation in the Middle East closely, but there is no indication that current global developments are affecting UK refineries’ ability to secure crude oil supplies. The Government is committed to a long-term future for the UK’s refining sector. Government is engaging with them to explore what steps can be taken to further support the sector, including considering the feasibility and impacts of including refined products in the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism in the future, and has recently concluded a call for evidence to shape the UK’s long-term strategy for the downstream oil sector.

What assessment he has made of the competitiveness of the UK's refined petroleum industry.

The Government recognises the challenges facing the refining sector in the UK. The Government continues to engage with the fuel industry to explore what steps can be taken to further support the sector, including considering the feasibility and impacts of including refined products in the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in the future. The government has just launched a call for evidence to shape the UK’s long-term strategy for the downstream oil sector. This will gather industry views on the opportunities and barriers to transition, issues and risks to energy security and what Government support may be needed to promote a managed transition.