To ask the President of the Board of Trade in what circumstances oil companies with licences granted by his Department under previous United Kingdom continental shelf licensing rounds are able to withdraw unilaterally from any exploration and drilling commitments specified in such licences.

There are no circumstances in which companies with licences granted under previous United Kingdom continental shelf licensing rounds are able to withdraw unilaterally from any exploration and drilling commitments specified in such licences. However, a licensee may, by giving to the Minister no less than six months' notice in writing, determine the licence. This right to determine the licence is without prejudice to any obligation or liability imposed or incurred under the terms of the licence.