12. A field determination is generally initiated by the submission of a Field Development Programme. A proposed determination must have been issued before the Field Development Programme is approved.

13. The proposed field determination is issued by DECC to all licensees involved in the field together with any others whose interests appear to be affected. The recipients of the proposed determination have 60 days from the date of receipt to make any objections they may have to it in writing. Should objections be received the licensees concerned are given the opportunity to put their case in more detail. All representations are considered but the final decision on the determination rests with officials acting on behalf of the Secretary of State. Once any objections have been resolved, a final determination is issued. This must be in place before production commences from the field.