§ Mr. Roy Hughesasked the Minister of Power what is the extent of the search for oil and natural gas in Monmouthshire; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Freeson:Licences to search for oil and natural gas have recently been granted over an area of approximately 1,000 sq. kms. in Monmouthshire, lying east of a line from the Black Mountain to the mouth of the Severn. Extensive seismic surveys have been carried out in the area and the licensees have undertaken to drill exploration wells to test the prospects.