HC Deb 01 February 1994 vol 236 cc618-9W
Mr. Ainger

To ask the President of the Board of Trade (1) what steps he is taking to ensure maximum information on the effect of seismic activity on cetaceans is collected during offshore oil exploration;

(2) if he will make it his policy to require holders of offshore oil exploration licences to invite independent researchers to carry out surveys of the behaviour of cetaceans during seismic operations.

Mr. Eggar

My officials encourage companies to offer facilities to environmental bodies to observe cetaceans. I understand that a number of seismic surveys conducted in blocks licensed during the 14th round have been accompanied by observers from such bodies.

It is not always possible to do this: adverse weather conditions can force changes to the dates of surveys at short notice, while the small size of some survey vessels means accommodation space is sometimes strictly limited.

Mr. Ainger

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will make it his policy to require operators to carry out preliminary surveys of the distribution and behaviour of cetaceans before carrying out offshore seismic operations or any source testing; and if he will make these surveys publicly available before operations or testing begin.

Mr. Eggar

In the 14th round, applicants for blocks in areas frequented by cetaceans were asked to carry out a preliminary environmental survey of all local sensitivities including cetaceans. Before carrying out seismic operations in sensitive areas, licensees are, in any event, expected to consult with the sea mammals research unit. In addition, during the survey, the lowest possible energy settings should be used.

By seeking such environmental surveys prior to licensing, I have the opportunity to ensure environmental concerns are taken into account when deciding licence awards. Similar arrangements will apply in future. Such surveys are the property of the companies commissioning them.

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