§ 37. Mr. Rees-Daviesasked the Secretary of State for Trade what was the cause of the collision in the English Channel between the Soviet vessel "Gorizont" and the Moroccan vessel "Ifini"; in what circumstances the survivors were rescued; why British salvage vessels were not available to undertake the task; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisMy right hon Friend made a written statement to the House on this subject on 3rd December. We have no jurisdiction to investigate the cause of the collision, which was between two foreign vessels well outside our territorial waters. With the agreement of the Russian Government, a diving survey has been carried out to try to ascertain the precise position and attitude of the ship, so far without success owing to bad visibility following storms. Further attempts will be made although the wreck is no longer a hazard to surface navigation.