The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, has denied ever meeting with Shell South Africa (Pty) Limited or discussing Shells proposed gas exploration in the Karoo with the Chairperson of Shell, Mr Bonang Mohale.
Last week a SAPA article, "Karoo Gas Project 'Safe' ", reported that the Chairman and Vice President of Shell South Africa had said that "Shell was in regular communication with Science and Technology Minister Naledi Pandor".
Minister Pandor has never had any communication from Shell in this regard, and has never met Mr Mohale to discuss the proposed project.
"I am puzzled as to why Mr Mohale, if the article is correct, would put out such a claim," said Minister Pandor.
The Minister said that she was intent on ensuring that South Africa won the bid to host the Square Kilometre Array radio telescope, and was not going to entertain any matter that might distract her from achieving that goal.
Enquiries
Lunga Ngqengelele (Ministerial Spokesperson)
Tel: 012 843 6802
Cell: 082 566 0446
E-mail: Lunga.ngqengelele@dst.gov.za
Minister Pandor denies discussing Karoo gas project with Shell Chair
