§ 27. Mr. Warrenasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will ensure that the environmental impact of onshore oil and gas exploration is kept to the minimum by reviewing procedures within the control of his Department.
§ Mr. GrayI am satisfied that the present arrangements, whereby a petroleum licensee is required to obtain all necessary planning permissions before applying for my consent to carry out survey work or drilling in the licensed area, are adequate to ensure that protection of the environment is fully considered by the appropriate planning authorities before any work can commence.