Section 7: Priority of applications for leases and licences.

(1) Where, in relation to the same area or overlapping areas, applications are received for leases from two or more persons, the application first received in order and in proper form shall have priority over any other.
(2) In the case of licences, the application first received by a local authority for its approval shall have priority over any other.
(3) In every case, an application for a lease shall have priority over any application for a licence in respect of the same area or overlapping areas.
(4) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (1), (2) or (3) of this section, unless the Minister directs that any question as to priority be referred to an arbitration appointed under section 33 of this Act, his decision on the matter shall be final.