3A

When preparing an abandonment programme under this section the Secretary of State must—

a

consult the OGA, and

b

frame the programme so as to ensure (whether by means of the timing of the measures proposed, the inclusion of provision for collaboration with other persons, or otherwise) that the cost of carrying it out is kept to the minimum that is reasonably practicable in the circumstances.

3B

When consulted under paragraph (a) of subsection (3A), the OGA must (in particular) consider and advise on—

a

alternatives to abandoning or decommissioning the installation or pipeline, such as re-using or preserving it, and

b

how to comply with the requirement in paragraph (b) of that subsection.