The Falklands’ Oil Department along with Dr Phil Richards of British Geological Survey (BGS) continue to work feverishly on the final legal paperwork allowing operators to drill. Both Rockhopper Exploration and Desire Petroleum have met with the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), acting as advisor to FIG on technical matters of the drilling programme. It is expected that DECC will continue to advise through out the drilling campaign, with the UK Health & Safety Executive (HSE) currently reviewing the Ocean Guardian’s safety case. HSE also review the safety aspects of operators’ well designs and have already signed off Desire’s first well. Additionally, HSE will provide an inspection service for FIG during the drilling campaign; Mrs Phyl Rendell, Director of Mineral Resources, is currently drawing up a letter of understanding to this end together with DF and AG.
Both Desire Petroleum and Rockhopper Exploration’s Environmental Surveys addenda are going through the approvals process, as is BHP Billiton’s EIS, while Oil Spill Contingency Plans (OSCPs) will be submitted to ExCo for approval as per licence requirements. The Director of Natural Resources, EPO and Falklands Conservation has been consulted and comments fed back to operators
Upon her return from maternity leave Administrative Manager Pippa Christie will be tasked with coordinating media matters as enquiries have increased as the drilling campaign draws nearer. | 
