The Press and Journal in Aberdeen has received praise from Tony Blair for helping to ensure a large British delegation at the world’s top oil and gas show in the United States.

The Prime Minister sent a message of congratulations as the paper, along with Aberdeen tourist agency Munro’s, had the opening day of the Offshore Technology Conference named after it.

The duo have orchestrated an annual trip to the conference in Houston for the past 30 years, with more than 400 delegates flying to the Atlantic every spring, and the honour was made in recognition of the relationship they have developed with the city.

The proclamation was presented to Press and Journal editor Derek Tucker and Munro’s managing partner Jack Burnett at a reception in Houston from its city council.

At the event, Britain’s energy minister, Brian Wilson, read out the message from the Prime Minister.

Mr Blair said: “I am delighted that the Press and Journal, in partnership with Munro’s Tourist Agency, has again helped to ensure a large UK presence at the world’s leading oil and gas show.

“It is vital to the future of our own industry that companies both large and small, with experience of the North Sea, are keeping abreast with global developments and technological advances within the industry.

“It is vital to future employment prospects in the UK industry, both onshore and offshore, that we are represented wherever oil and gas are to be found.

“I know that, for anyone who needs to be well informed about the oil and gas industry, the Press and Journal is required reading.”

Editor Derek said: “The Prime Minister has been busy internationally for many weeks and I welcome him taking the time to send this message. It gives everyone here for the show a boost.”

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