§ Mr. Bessellasked the Secretary of State for Defence what contribution is being made by British Petroleum Limited towards the cost of the attempt to destroy the oil slick off the Isles of Scilly from the oil tanker which has foundered on nearby rocks and which is leased by British Petroleum and instruct the Government directors to seek to arrange for that company to make a financial contribution of not less than £250,000.
§ Mr. MarshI have been asked to reply.
Her Majesty's Government are in close touch with the interests concerned, including British Petroleum about the various aspects of the emergency arrangements. The question of financial liability for the costs arising has yet to be resolved, but in the meantime without prejudice to this the Government is giving every assistance, both financial and physical.