§ Mr. Elystan Morganasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement concerning the prospects of finding oil in the Celtic Sea.
§ Mr. Tom BoardmanSeismic surveys which have been carried out in the Celtic Sea have shown geological structures which could contain oil or gas. Until these structures have been tested by drilling, it is not possible to say whether or not they contain commercial accumulation of oil or gas, although the discovery of gas in Irish waters is encouraging.
§ Mr. Elystan Morganasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions have taken place between his Department and any official bodies in Wales concerning the possible effect upon the Welsh economy of the discovery of oil in the Celtic Sea.
§ Mr. Tom BoardmanMy officials have regular consultation with local authorities and representatives of industry.
§ Mr. Elystan Morganasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps are being taken to safeguard the interests of Wales in the event of oil being discovered in the Celtic Sea.
§ Mr. Tom BoardmanMy right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State 243W for Wales and I are keeping in close touch with all developments including those of direct interest to Wales and the Welsh economy.