Written question asked by Daniel Kawczynski (Conservative) on Wednesday, 24 April 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 26 April 2024. It was answered by David Rutley (Conservative) on Thursday, 2 May 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Libya: Oil

Question: To ask the Deputy Foreign Secretary, what steps he is taking to discourage multinational energy companies from engaging in corrupt practices in the oil industry in Libya.

Answer: The National Oil Corporation (NOC) is an important institution in Libya with a vital role to play. It is however vulnerable to malign state actors seeking to benefit from Libya's political instability and capture of Libyan wealth by a small number of well-placed individuals through corrupt practices such as fuel smuggling, which can contribute to regional instability. The UK is therefore supportive of any efforts to investigate corruption and impropriety in the NOC and advocates greater transparency on revenue expenditure. The UK is clear that it will investigate any relevant allegations of corruption falling under the Bribery Act 2010. Overall, the UK believes the only means of addressing these issues sustainably is through a political settlement under UN auspices, which it continues to support, including by encouraging all parties to engage meaningfully.

Secondary information