Abstract: Method and apparatus for controlling production of fluids from a well. A transfer vessel receives fluids produced from an oil and gas well which separate into liquid and gas phases in the vessel. A gas pipeline and a liquid pipeline are provided for transporting produced gas and liquid, respectively, from the vessel. A gas pressure control valve is provided in the gas pipeline. A bypass conduit having a bypass valve therein forms a shunt around the pressure control valve in the gas pipeline. In the event of an abnormal rise of liquid in the vessel, the bypass valve closes thereby increasing gas pressure in the vessel to a pressure sufficient to boost liquid therefrom into an emergency vessel drain.