§ Mr. Adleyasked the Secretary of State for Energy, pursuant to the press notice issued by his Department covering onshore petroleum licensing awards, what percentage of land represented by licence number PL259 is contained within the Christchurch parliamentary constituency; what steps he is taking to enable constituents in the area concerned to make representations in relation to the proposals he has enclosed with the notice; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerApproximately 35 per cent. of the area of PL259 is within the boundary of the Christchurch constituency. The licensee must obtain prior permission from any land owner and occupier for any operation, and he must obtain all other consents required including planning permission. Constituents in any area concerned will therefore be able to make their representations direct to the licensee or through the normal planning channels as appropriate.