§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many incidents involving the discharge into the sea by merchant shipping of(a) noxious liquid substances and (b) pollution hazard substances took place in the most recent year for which figures are available; and how many successful prosecutions were brought. [11523]
§ Mr. BowisIn 1996, 347 incidents of suspected discharges of noxious liquid or other polluting substances in contravention of international regulations were reported to the marine pollution control unit. The source of these suspected violations was identified on 30 occasions, of which 23 involved oil and seven involved other substances. Of these 30 cases, three were referred to the Treasury Solicitor or procurator fiscal and in eight cases it was considered more appropriate to refer to the relevant flag state for action. Ten cases remain under investigation.