§ Mr. Yeoasked the Secretary of State for Energy whether he has any proposals for further off-shore production licensing.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithMy proposals for a tenth round of offshore licensing are as follows.
The round will offer a mix of blocks spread across various areas of the United Kingdom continental shelf and all awards will be made at the discretion of the Secretary 118W of State for Energy. The aim will be to consolidate on the ninth round and provide further opportunities for exploration, particularly in areas which have seen relatively little licensing in recent years. There are many such areas, including some on the fringes of existing mature areas which would benefit from more intensive examination.
My intention would be to license blocks in the following broad areas:
Area Quadrants Northern North Sea 210, 211, 3, 8, 9 Inner and Outer Moray Firth 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19 Central North Sea 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23 Mid North Sea High 36, 37, 38, 39 Southern North Sea 41, 42, 43, 44, 47 Rockall Trough 165, 166 Faeroes Trough/North and West of Shetlands 206, 207, 208, 209, 214 North of 62 deg. N. 219 The quadrants are given as a guide only; not all the available blocks will be put on offer.
The terms will probably follow the same general lines as in the ninth round, although I am considering some adjustment of rental payments.
In the coming weeks, I shall be discussing my proposals with those involved, with particular reference to areas where special care and attention may be needed in the conduct of exploration and development for environmental, fishing or other reasons. The timing of the formal invitation to apply will be determined in the light of the outcome of these consultations.