§ Mr. CorbettTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will introduce legislation to make mandatory the installation and regular maintenance of gas and smoke detector systems in below-deck holds in cross-Channel ferries used for the transport of live farm animals ; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellThe Merchant Shipping (Fire Protection) Regulations 1984 require the provision of a fire detection system in all cargo spaces which are not reasonably accessible to the efficient patrol system required by the statutory regulations.
There is a requirement on the owner to ensure that any such equipment is maintained in good order at all times.
Gas detection systems are not required by international or United Kingdom regulations and there are no plans to introduce requirements for such systems.
§ Mr. CorbettTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what checks, and with what frequency, are carried out on behalf of his Department of systems of ventilation, smoke and gas detection in below-decks holds in cross-Channel ferries regularly used for the transport of live farm animals.
§ Mr. David MitchellVentilation systems and fire detection systems, where fitted, are items of inspection both at initial and annual renewal surveys, and are part of the statutory requirements leading to the issue of a passenger certificate. They may also be checked at other general inspection visits as opportunities occur.
Fire detection and alarm systems are required in all cargo spaces which are not reasonably accessible to the efficient patrol system required by the statutory regulations.