§ Mr. RichardsTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what measures are being taken to ensure that test drillings for oil and gas will not damage marine life off the north Wales coast.
§ Mr. EggarAs described in my answer to the hon. Member for Cardiff, Central (Mr. Jones) on 7 December,Official Report, col 497, licences for oil and gas exploration drilling may be subject to special conditions designed to take account of the sensitivities of specific licensed blocks. In the block off the north Wales coast where drilling is currently in progress, environmental and local seabed surveys were carried out before drilling started. Water-based muds are being used, and cuttings may be discharged to the sea since tidal conditions in the area ensure their rapid dispersal. No other rig discharges are permitted, nor any fuel transfers while the rig is on site.