Controversial "no" by Energy Minster

Oil and Energy Minister Terje Riis-Johansen caused controversy this weekend, whe he in an interview with the newspaper VG said that he personally opposed drilling for oil in Lofoten waters at this time.

The announcement came as a surprise both to the oil industry and the political opposition.

It is expected that three-party coalition government will make a decision on a plan for the management of the resources in the region in 2011, and many expressed surprise that the minister announced his personal opinion, well ahead of the Government's decision.

Even Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg had to step forth and explain:

- This is un-dramatic. We are not making a decision right now. After the new year the Government will decide whether to say no, or to gain more knowledge by further looking into what the consequences of drilling for oil in the area could be, the Prime Minister said to NRK.

Stoltenberg pointed out that it was a well known fact that there was a difference of opinion on this issue within the three-party coalition.

- The Senterparty (Agrarians) have earlier said no, and to me it is not surprising that one of its ministers stands behind his party's program. That is undramatic, Stoltenberg said.

However, both representatives from the oil industry and the political opposition find it unusual that a government minister publicly announces a personal opinion a such a touchy subject well before the Government has made its decision.

(NRK/Aftenposten)

Monday, 19 July 2010 06:57