§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to issue his proposed guidance to local authorities concerning the determination of planning applications relating to exploration for and exploitation of oil and natural gas resources; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneI hope to initiate consultation on draft guidelines before the summer recess and, subject to the comments made, to issue a definitive statement to local authorities on the planning and environmental aspects of onshore oil and gas exploration and production by the end of the year.