North Sea Supplies (Scotland)

HC Deb 28 June 1966 vol 730 cc259-60W

Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Power what appliances for the reception of sea gas are being built, and where, in Scotland.

Mr. Marsh

None, at present; but aerial surveys of possible routes for an extension of the methane pipeline have been made.

Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Power if he will state the duration, starting, and ending times of the licences he has granted to persons and companies to drill for gas in the North Sea; what stipulation these licences contain for bringing some of that gas to Scotland; how much gas will be brought to Scotland; and to which parts of Scotland it will be brought.

Mr. Marsh

Six years, with a right to a further 40 years on not more than half the original area, starting on dates between 17th September, 1964 and 24th November, 1965. As to Scotland, I would refer to the replies given to my hon. Friend the Member for West Lothian (Mr. Dalyell) on 26th April and to my hon. and learned Friend on 21st June, 1966.