§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects to complete the award of licences to search for oil and gas on the United Kingdom continental shelf applied for under the terms of the invitation published on 22nd June, 1971; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir J. EdenI have now decided the allocation for the Western Approaches and areas off the coasts of Scotland. A list of the companies and groups of companies which have accepted offers of blocks is being sent to my hon. Friend and a copy placed in the Library for reference. This completes the allocation of licences in respect of applications received in response to the invitation of 22nd June, 1971. Official Gazette notices will follow as formal licensing procedures are completed.
In all, 75 companies or groups have been allotted 282 blocks and at least 224 exploration wells involving an investment 138W of over £200 million are to be drilled over the next 6 years. British companies are participating to the extent of 43 per cent, in the licences.