HC Deb 17 November 1966 vol 736 cc158-9W
73. Mr. Alldritt

asked the President of the Board of Trade what information he has about the fire aboard the Russian motor vessel "Vereia" in the port of Liverpool; and if he will seek international agreement to ensure that port fire-fighters fighting fires on foreign vessels shall not be obstructed, as happened on this occasion.

Mr. Jay

I understand that a fire broke out in the Russian ship "Vereia" while in Huskisson Dock, Liverpool, during the evening of 7th December. The Fire Brigade attended the ship and started to tackle the fire. There were language difficulties when the ship's master wished to use the ship's fixed carbon dioxide installations, but these difficulties were resolved after the arrival of the Chief Fire Officer. The fire was contained overnight, and the Brigade extinguished it next morning. I do not think any international agreement would have helped.