HC Deb 03 May 1976 vol 910 c217W
19. Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will give details of the exploratory operations for oil and natural gas in the Celtic Sea planned to the end of 1976; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Benn

Consent has been sought to drill two wells. The timing of drilling within the initial six-year term of the licences is at the discretion of the licensees: further drilling during the year will depend to a considerable extent on the success or failure of the planned wells.