§ 38. Mr. Grenfellasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the serious damage caused by the discharge of oil around the coast of Gower, particularly at Port Eynon and Pwlldu; whether vessels using Bristol Channel ports are known to empty their oil tanks within or adjacent to the three-mile limit; whether any warning has been issued recently against this practice; and whether he will authorise a close watch upon vessels in the Bristol Channel so as to prevent the repetition of this serious offence and consequent injury to the fishing interests and the seaside amenities of the Bristol Channel?
Mr. StanleyYes, Sir. The recent pollution by oil off the coast between Port Eynon and Pwlldu was reported to my 1036 Department by the coastguard and inquiries were at once instituted with a view, if possible, to ascertaining the source of the pollution. I have no information that vessels using Bristol Channel ports empty their oil tanks within or adjacent to the three-mile limit, but shipowners have been from time to time asked by the Chamber of Shipping to ensure that oil or oily water is not discharged within 50 miles of any coast. The last circular on this subject was issued in February, 1938. With regard to the last part of the question, I fear that it is not practicable to keep a close watch on vessels at a distance from the coast with the object of preventing such offences, but the coastguard have orders to be on the look-out and report any pollution and the name of any suspected ship.
§ Mr. GrenfellWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the question of posting up notices at the entrance to the docks in Swansea, Cardiff and Newport with the object of putting a stop to the discharge of oil? Will the right hon. Gentleman also come with me to see the damage which is being done to this very beautiful coast?