§ Mr. DismoreTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what conclusions have been drawn on the consultation process into the protection of wrecked military vessels, with special reference to military maritime graves. [14305]
§ Dr. MoonieThe consultation process on the protection of military vessels, in particular, military maritime graves, ended in August. Following that consultation process it was decided that a small number of wrecks within UK jurisdiction, which are representative of all those lost, will be designated as controlled sites. This means that any activity within a controlled area will require a licence. All other military vessels which meet the criteria as set out in the consultation document, including those in international waters, will be designated as protected places. Those who contributed to the consultation process have been informed of this. A copy of the report will be placed in the Library of the House.