HC Deb 03 March 1970 vol 797 cc250-1
31. Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what progress has been made recently in setting up machinery for dealing with coastal pollution by oil; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Greenwood

As was said on 18th November in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Barrow-in-Furness (Mr. Booth), there is now a series of interlocking schemes of organisation round the coast to deal with beach pollution. Some local authorities have been reviewing their schemes in the light of detailed suggestions we sent to them last August. Another recent development is an arrangement by which oil companies can take the lead in dealing with pollution arising from a spillage of their products.

Mrs. Short

While thanking my right hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask whether he agrees that the destruction of one of our most precious resources —the coastline—and the effect that oil pollution is having on plants and animal habitats should be dealt with most stringently? While welcoming also what he said about local authorities, may I ask whether he thinks that much tougher steps should be taken to prevent the discharge of oil into the sea in the first place?

Mr. Greenwood

I think that my hon. Friend will agree that one of the most important things is to have the right machinery for dealing with oil pollution when it occurs. There has been a substantial improvement over the last year. However, I agree about the importance of this matter, and I hope that hon. Members will study the report published a day or two ago by the Countryside Commission on the need for protecting the coastline.

Sir S. McAdden

Will the Minister tell us whatever happened to the interesting suggestion made by the hon. Member for Southend, East about a reward of £1,000 being offered for information leading to the discovery of those who are guilty of dumping oil in coastal waters, which was promised careful consideration?

Mr. Greenwood

If the hon. Gentleman will send me the £1,000 I will be responsible for the advertisement.