The Earl of Launderdaleasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will now list the landward hydrocarbons exploration licences in respect of which planning permission has not yet been granted, in each case identifying the operator, the date of application and the name of the planning authority involved.
The Earl of GowrieI regret that this information is not available. As stated in the reply given on 5th November (Official Report, cols, 1195–6), the question of planning permission for petroleum exploration work is a matter between the licensee and the planning authority concerned. The Government are not notified about planning applications which have been made, except in a limited number of types of case. Licensees are required, however, before commencing any licence operations and as a condition of their licences, to provide the Department of Energy with evidence that they have consulted the relevant planning authority and that any necessary planning permission has been given.