§ 6. Mr. Gale asked the Secretary of State for Energy how many annexe B oil and gasfield development approvals have been granted so far in the current year.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithSo far in 1985 I have approved 18 projects.
19. Mr. Alexander asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will publish a list of the number of oil and gas wells drilled so far in the current year and in each of the past 10 years.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithThe total number of oil and gas wells drilled so far this year, and in each of the last 10 years is as follows:
Number *1985 329 1984 330 1983 244 1982 245 1981 237 1980 197 1979 154 1978 167 1977 207 1976 145 1975 156 * To 30 November.
30. Mr. Greg Knight asked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will estimate the value of research and development work carried out in relation to the offshore oil and gas industry since 1979.
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§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithMy Department has spent over £90 million on research and development since 1979. We do not have any figures available for the amount of money invested by the oil and gas industry.