§ Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is satisfied that the newly designated areas for gas and oil exploration in the English Channel, westwards from the Sussex coast and in the Western approaches, will not constitute an English Channel hazard; what fresh safety precautions will be taken before drilling rigs are established; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantAlthough areas have been designated in the English 23W Channel, no applications have been invited as yet for any licences in these areas. In giving consent to the siting of drilling platforms within licensed areas, full consideration is given to the needs of marine safety.