HC Deb 18 November 1991 vol 199 cc5-6W
Ms. Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will hold a full investigation and inquiry into all the circumstances relating to the sinking of the SK Link including the spreading of the fire from the engine room to the cargo.

Mr. McLoughlin

A comprehensive investigation into the fire and subsequent explosions on the Swedish registered ro-ro cargo ship Stora-Korsnas-Link 1 is being carried out by the marine accident investigation branch as the fire broke out when the vessel was in UK territorial waters, off the River Tees. The Swedish authorities are also investigating the incident.

Ms. Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will give details of arrangements for the transportation and handling of the cargo on board the SK Link.

Mr. McLoughlin

The Swedish registered Stora-Korsnas Link 1 was carrying a cargo of forest products and two containers of sodium chlorate which were stowed at the after end of the main deck. These were loaded at Gavle, Sweden for Hartlepool.

The Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the loading of the cargo in co-operation with the Swedish authorities.