HC Deb 08 February 1982 vol 17 c730
13. Mr. Nelson

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what assessment he has made of the possibility of oil and gas exploitation in West Sussex, in the light of geological and seismic surveys and exploratory drilling by licensed operators.

Mr. Gray

Licensees have shown a great deal of interest in the West Sussex area, but until drilling has taken place it is impossible to predict whether oil and gas are present and in commercial quantities.

Mr. Nelson

Will my hon. Friend confirm that not only in my constituency but throughout the whole of the county of West Sussex extensive seismic and drilling explorations are taking place? Can he reassure my constituents that the conditions attaching to onshore licences and to any planning applications under appeal will contain sufficient clauses against despoliation of the environment—in particular, excessive smells, noise, spillage and flaring?

Mr. Gray

I appreciate the concern of my hon. Friend and of other hon. Members who have the possibility of drilling taking place within their constituencies. I have made it clear on several occasions that the award of a licence does not preclude the licensee from being subject to the constraints of other statutory obligations. Indeed, planning authorities have the right to attach specific requirements to whatever permission they grant to developers.

Mr. Renton

Could my hon. Friend assure people in Sussex, such as myself, who are not on gas supplies, that if gas is found in Sussex there might be some hope of having quicker access to gas?

Mr. Gray

I share my hon. Friend's concern about this matter. I represent a constituency the shores of which are bounded by gas discoveries, but only a small part of the constituency is served by gas. Like my hon. Friend, I hope that the matter will be put right one day.