Arkady Dvorkovich proposes to cut key state program out of the shelf law

The state program of exploration and development of continental shelf, around which struggle for access to hydrocarbon reserves of the Russian Arctic have been taking place during recent 18 months, may be abolished. According to the Kommersant, last week the Vice Prime Minister Arkady Dvorkovich entrusted to present appropriate proposals. Denial of the document, with which the Ministry of Nature tried to achieve participation of private companies in shelf development, is a logical result of administrative pressure from state companies on the Government and consolidates win of Rosneft and Gazprom in the issue of shelf access.