HC Deb 27 March 1980 vol 981 c682W
Mr. Ernie Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what proportion of expenditure Her Majesty's Government intend to commit to the experimental well to be drilled by the British National Oil Corporation in block 163/6; and what this cost will be in cash terms.

Mr. Gray

Her Majesty's Government are committed to pay 51 per cent. of the total cost of the well to be drilled in block 163/6. The cost is estimated at approximately £9 million and thus the Governments commitment is approximately £4½ million.