Start date: The site survey programme is planned to be conducted in the austral summer (second half 2008).

Objective: Each prospect needs to have at least one site survey. Digital site surveys (shallow high frequency seismic data) are required to assess drilling hazards in the top few hundred meters of sediment below the sea bed.  Detailed sea bed bathymetry and imaging surveys are required to ensure the stability and suitability of the selected drill site. On some of our larger prospects additional site surveys may be acquired. These will be used for appraisal well locations in the event that hydrocarbons are discovered in the initial exploration well.

An environmental impact assessment “EIA” must be submitted for each potential drilling location.  Although the environmental impact of a deep water well on the marine environment is negligible, a detailed report covering all aspects of the environment is an important requirement which both FOGL and BHP Billiton are fully committed to undertaking.  As part of this environmental assessment, FOGL acquired marine mammal and bird count data during the 2006 -2007 seismic campaign as well as shallow current data over the entire licence area.  Sam pling of the sea bed is required to calibrate local benthic habitats and assess the strength of the substrate.  Additional data, such as the analysis of deep currents in preparation for rig mooring, may also be acquired in 2008.  All of this data will be incorporated into the EIA.