asked the Minister for Energy the number of applications for oil exploration licences which he has received to date for blocks 49/22, 49/23, 49/24, 49/25, and 50/16 in the Celtic Sea; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Oil Exploration Licences.
68.
One of my priorities as Minister for Energy is to increase the pace of exploration offshore. With this in mind, my Department launched a promotion in the form of a package involving the five blocks referred to, giving an integrated geological and geophysical interpretation of the blocks based on all the information at my Department's disposal, including data from all wells in the area. This package was made available for purchase by suitable oil companies.
To date 12 companies have purchased the data. As is the norm in the oil exploration industry, applications for licences would not be expected until the closing date, 1 July 1987. However, I am encouraged by the initial interest shown by the companies and I am hopeful that this interest will be translated into firm applications for licences from some of these companies, including drilling commitments.