§ 28. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Power what facts or potentialities he takes into account when considering whether to give a licence to an applicant to drill for oil or gas in the North Sea.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeI have not yet invited any applications for licences.
§ Mr. HughesWhat power does my right hon. Friend have with regard to granting licences to drill for oil in the North Sea? Does he take into account among the facts and potentialities referred to in my Question such facts as may affect fishing in the North Sea and other industries which are very important to Scotland and particularly to Aberdeen? Will he take care to see that these industries are protected?
§ Mr. LeeI will, indeed. As a matter of fact, one could if necessary, attach conditions designed to protect fishing to any assent to these operations.