Scientific investigation

(1) The Inspector may, by instrument in writing, consent to the carrying on by any person of reconnaissance or 95 prospecting operations in the course of a scientific investigation with respect to the geology or mineral resources of Belize. (2) An instrument of consent under this section is subject to such conditions, if any, as are specified in the instrument. (3) An instrument of consent under this section authorises the person to whom it is issued to carry on the reconnaissance or prospecting operations specified in the instrument– (a) in the area; and (b) subject to the conditions (if any), specified in the instrument, in the course of the scientific investigation. (4) Subject to sub-sections (5) and (6), any authorised officer, or any person authorised in writing for the purpose of this section by the Inspector for the purpose of collecting information on the geology and mineral resources of Belize, may enter on any land and, for that purpose, carry on any prescribed operations. (5) An authorised officer or a person authorised shall not, pursuant to sub-section (4), enter on any land or place referred to in section 102, without obtaining the consent required under that section in relation to the land or place. (6) Where the doing of any act is regulated or prohibited by a written law, other than this Act, nothing in this section shall be construed as authorising the person specified in the instrument to do the act– (a) otherwise than in accordance with the written law; and (b) without first obtaining the licence, permit, authority, or other instrument, if and when required under the written law, for the doing of the act. (7) Notwithstanding any provision of that written law, if the Minister is satisfied that any licence, authority, or other instrument required in pursuance of sub-section (6) (b), is being unreasonably withheld he may, in his absolute discretion, direct the issue thereof.