§ Lord Mackenzie of Culkeinasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether, following the sinking of the "Jambo" near to the entrance to Loch Broom, they will now consider compulsory pilotage through the Minch for all large ships and for all ships with hazardous cargoes. [HL3816]
§ Lord Davies of OldhamThis incident—and whether the cargo was hazardous—is still being investigated. The vessel was not a large ship. The Government have taken various measures to reduce risks to the Minches from shipping. These are actively monitored and a further vessel traffic survey is planned in the coming 12 months. A designated deep water route to the west of the Hebrides is recommended for laden tankers. An emergency towage vessel is stationed nearby. The imposition of compulsory pilotage has been looked at carefully on a number of occasions—in particular following the report of the noble and learned Lord, Lord Donaldson,Safer Ships Cleaner Seas—and it has been concluded that it would be neither a practical or appropriate measure for managing risk.