§ Mr. Prescottasked the Prime Minister what ministerial arrangements he has made to develop a co-ordinated and consistent policy for the use of the sea and of the sea bed in the light of the expectation that the United Kingdom may shortly become entitled to regulate the exploitation of a 200-mile exclusive economic zone around the shores of the United Kingdom.
§ The Prime MinisterIt is too early to say when the United Kingdom will become entitled to a 200-mile exclusive economic zone, but planning for that contingency is well advanced. A thorough review of existing ministerial responsibilities has shown no need to introduce fundamental changes at this stage; but I have asked my right hon. Friend the Lord Privy Seal to co-ordinate policy in matters connected with the law of the sea, the use of the sea and of the sea bed, as well as continuing to perform the rôlele of co-ordinating the measures necessary for the protection of our offshore and other maritime interests announced by my predecessor on 5th November 1974. Individual Ministers remain responsible and answerable to this House, for the particular functions of their own Departments.