The construction of a pipe-line of a length not exceeding F116.093 kilometres which is to form an addition to another shall, if the aggregate of the lengths of both exceeds F116.093 kilometres , be deemed for the purposes of the foregoing provisions of this Act to constitute the construction of a cross-country pipe-line and not to constitute the construction of a local pipe-line and s6o shall the construction of a pipe-line of a length not exceeding F116.093 kilometres so as to connect two or more others, if the aggregate of the lengths of the line and of those connected thereby exceeds F116.093 kilometres.

The Minister, on an application in that behalf being made to him, and after causing if he thinks fit a public inquiry to be held, may by order (made by statutory instrument which shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament) direct that the foregoing subsection shall not apply to the construction of pipe-lines situate wholly within an area specified in or described by the order, being pipe-lines of a class so specified.