HC Deb 16 July 1985 vol 83 cc92-3W
Mr. Deakins

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what has been the United Kingdom contribution to the ocean drilling programme in each of the past three years; if he intends that the United Kingdom should remain a full member of the programme; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Brooke

The total United Kingdom contribution was as follows:

£000's
NERC Department of Energy Total
1982–83 1,517.4 107.4 1,624.8
1983–84 382.0 — 382.0
1984–85 169.9 — 169.9

These figures relate to the international phase of ocean drilling, which was completed in September 1983, and to the ocean drilling project which began in October 1983. The project's financial years do not coincide with United Kingdom financial years, to which the figures shown here relate. On the second and third parts of the question I have nothing to add to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Linlithgow (Mr. Dalyell) on 8 July 1985 at column 352.

Dr. Marek

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether a decision has been made for British participation in the ocean drilling project; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Brooke

I refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Linlithgow (Mr. Dalyell) on 8 July 1985 at column352.