§ Mr. ThurnhamTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy how many barrels of oil are produced each day from onshore drilling sites in the United Kingdom; how many such sites are currently in operation; and if he will make a statement of his proposals for licensing future onshore oil production.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonProduction from onshore oilfields averaged 14,700 barrels per day in 1989. This level is 91W expected to increase substantially when production from the Wytch Farm field expands later this year. Twelve fields and a number of small sites in the east midlands are currently in production. Companies are free to apply to my Department for licences to produce oil from onshore discoveries at any time. No such applications are under consideration at present. Existing licensees require consent for their detailed plans to develop oil discoveries. My right hon. Friend has two applications for such consent currently under consideration.