Oil and gas companies have been awarded a further 41 exploration licences in the North Sea. The awards were made following additional environmental assessment and consultation after 134 licences were granted late last year. The Oil and Gas Authority said the total of 175 licence awards reflected a good level of interest in the North Sea in spite of the oil price plunge. Andy Samuel, chief executive of the Oil and Gas Authority said: “The UK Continental Shelf remains a world-class hydrocarbon province where significant resources and economic value remain to be realised.” He added: “Licences are however just a start and industry, government and the OGA now need to work together to revitalise exploration activity across the basin and convert licences into successful exploration wells.”