§ Mr. Barry FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will hold an inquiry into the fatal incident involving a hydrofoil in Cowes harbour on Friday 27 November, with the results to be publicly available as soon as possible after the end of the inquiry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellI have appointed a marine surveyor in my Department to undertake a preliminary inquiry into the collision between the hydrofoil ferry Sheerwater 3 and the cabin cruiser Kingfisher on 27 November.
The collision occurred at 1720 hours in West Cowes harbour. The Kingfisher was extensively damaged and the three occupants were thrown into the water. I much regret that one of them lost his life and another suffered very serious injuries. A 14-year-old boy was rescued unhurt. There were no injuries to passengers on board the hydrofoil and it did not suffer any damage.
Details of the findings of the inquiry will be made available to interested parties as soon as possible.