§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will make a statement on British participation in the ocean drilling programme.
§ Mr. WaldenI understand that the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) sees United Kingdom participation in the ocean drilling programme (ODP) as an important aspect of the council's support for the environmental sciences. It will also provide information and experience valuable to wider United Kingdom interests, including industry. The annual subscription for the ODP is $2.5 million. NERC, in discussion with major British oil companies and the Departments of Energy, Environment and Trade and Industry, is attempting to find sufficient resources for full United Kingdom membership.