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Written question asked by Grahame Morris (Labour) on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 January 2026. It was answered by Keir Mather (Labour) on Friday, 16 January 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.


Offshore Industry: Accidents

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, in light of the fatal incident on the Valaris 121 jackup drilling rig on the UK Continental Shelf on 14 November 2025, if she will provide an update on the Liberian Ship Registry’s investigation into its causes.

Answer

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) is aware of the accident on the Valaris 121 jack-up drilling rig that occurred on the 14 November 2025. The MAIB has been in contact with the Liberian Ship Registry and received confirmation that the registry is conducting a preliminary assessment into the incident, which is in the evidence gathering phase.

As Valaris 121 was jacked-up, immobile and carrying out drilling operations, its operations fall under the purview of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Offshore. The MAIB has received confirmation that HSE (Offshore) has commenced an investigation into the accident, and HSE’s contact details have been passed to the Liberian Ship Registry.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
103744
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Accidents Offshore industry North Sea Liberia
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk