§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what provisions his officials have made for allowing stricken tankers into Kilbrannan sound: what consultations were conducted concerning this matter with locally based commercial fishermen who fish the sound, before his officials took their decision; which other interested parties were consulted; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PortilloIn answer to the first part of the hon. Gentleman's question, no particular areas around United Kingdom are designated by the Department to be safe havens for stricken tankers and if a tanker is seriously damaged and needs shelter it will seek the nearest available. The Department holds general navigation details of the United Kingdom coast and such environmental details as is available. In the event of an incident it will advise and consult to the extent that time will allow all relevant local authorities before agreeing to or taking action to prevent, the tanker's intended movements.