§ 8. Mr. Neil Martenasked the Minister of Power if he will make a statement about the underground storage of gas in Oxfordshire.
§ Mr. MarshThe Gas Council has been carrying out investigations of a geological formation which may prove suitable for an underground storage of gas in the vicinity of Sarsden in the Cotswolds. It will be some time before the Gas Council can decide whether the results justify making an application for a storage authorisation order, under Part II of the Gas Act, 1965.
§ Mr. MartenWould the right hon. Gentleman realise that there is considerable anxiety in the area about the superstructures above the ground which might be involved? Would he give an assurance that before firm proposals are agreed not only the county planners but the local people affected by these superstructures will be fully consulted?
§ Mr. MarshLocal authorities, planning authorities, water authorities, land owners and others concerned are notified of, and can object to, an application to the Minister for a storage authorisation order, and there would be a public inquiry if there were any real objections.