HC Deb 28 March 1928 vol 215 cc1165-6
34. Major CARVER

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the recurrence on a large scale of the destruction of sea birds through floating oil; and whether he proposes to investigate such cases with a view to police court proceedings?

Mr. WILLIAMS

A White Paper, a copy of which I am sending to my hon. and gallant Friend, was issued last May showing the extent of oil pollution round the coast. The complaints received since then do not suggest that the evil is increasing, but if my hon. and gallant Friend has any definite information, I shall be pleased to consider it. Proceedings under the Oil in Navigable Waters Act are taken by local authorities and persons, not by the Board of Trade.

Mr. A. V. ALEXANDER

Is there any real progress yet in the use of separating machinery on board ship?

Mr. WILLIAMS

I am afraid I shall have to ask for notice of that question.