Commander Maitlandasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will give details of Government discussions with the oil companies regarding the provision of discharge facilities for giant tankers in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. WatkinsonI have myself held discussions with the interests concerned with Milford Haven, who are seeking powers to provide facilities for ships up to 100,000 deadweight tons. At Southampton plans are going forward to enable tankers up to 65,000 deadweight tons to be handled. On the Clyde, a new jetty84W is to be provided capable of accommodating ships up to 100,000 deadweight tons. On the Mersey, a new oil berth is contemplated capable of taking ships up to 65,000 deadweight tons, or up to 100,000 deadweight tons with a draught restriction. On the Thames, the Port of London Authority and the oil companies are discussing the dredging necessary to raise the present limit of 45,000 deadweight tons. A number of other sites are also being surveyed by the interests concerned.