Mineral Exploration

Mr. Laurance Reed
asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will now make available funds for a full-scale reconnaissance of the United Kingdom Continental Shelf for mineral resources other than oil.

Mr. Michael Heseltine
I have been asked to reply.The Institute of Geological Sciences of the National Environment Research Council has been engaged in a systematic geological survey of the Continental Shelf for some years. All resources, not only oil, are included in this survey which will continue; the majority of the financial support will be borne by my Department.