§ Dr. Godmanasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the discussions with the oil industry and other interests involved on the requirements for removal of (i) onshore and (ii) offshore oil and gas rigs and platforms and undersea equipment, and the requirement for sealing of wells on abandonment.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithI have had discussions with representatives from offshore oil industry organisations, and from fishermen's organisations on the Government's proposals for the abandonment of disused offshore oil and gas installations; my officials are continuing discussions with these organisations. No discussions have yet taken place on the question of the eventual removal of onshore oil and gas production facilities.
The requirements for the sealing of abandoned wells are well understood by the offshore operating companies and have been in operation for a number of years.
§ Dr. Godmanasked the Secretary of State for Energy what procedures are followed when it is proposed that (i) an onshore and (ii) an offshore oil or gas well is to be abandoned; and what proposed abandonments have so far been raised with his Department.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithWhen a company proposed to abandon a well onshore or offshore it must seek the Secretary of State's consent before commencing abandonment operations. The condition of the well and the proposed sealing arrangements are reviewed by my officials before giving consent. Over 1,000 offshore wells have been abandoned since exploration commenced in December 1964. A similar number of onshore wells have been abandoned.