§ Mr. Nicholas Wintertonasked the Secretary of State for Energy how many applications seeking rights to explore in the North Sea for oil are in the possession of his Department at present; and what companies have submitted them.
§ Mr. GrayThe closing date for receipt of applications under the seventh round of licensing is noon on 11 August. As yet no applications have been received, and on past experience we would not expect to receive them until shortly before the closing date.