§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will introduce legislation increasing the penalties for oil pollution around British coasts.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisI have been asked to reply.
The Prevention of Oil Pollution Act 1971 provides for a maximum fine of £50,000 on summary conviction or an unlimited fine on indictment for unlawful discharges of oil and I have no plans for their increase.