In Europe’s changing energy panorama, the United Kingdom has joined the ranks of countries with an indigenous gas source, probably of sufficient size to achieve self sufficiency. Not only does the industry deserve credit for a remarkable technical achievement, but the Government also deserves much credit for having provided the proper investment climate. The Government will continue to exercise tight control over all phases of gas distribution and purchase of gas from producing companies. Contracts stipulating quantities and gas purchase prices have yet to be negotiated. As the sole purchaser of gas, however, and with the abundant reserves indicated, the Government is in a strong bargaining position. The major oil companies are the principal participants in the discoveries made to date. To some extent gas revenues may be offset in part by the effects of competition on U. K. fuel oil sales.