HC Deb 20 November 2003 vol 413 c1458W
Mr. Sanders

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he will take to control the route of US ships bound for dismantling in Hartlepool. [139999]

Mr. Jamieson

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has approved passage plans for the ships in question and will do so in future transits of this kind, as well as monitor ship movements against the approved plans.

Only if the ships are in UK waters can the Secretary of State intervene. He may give a direction but only if it is necessary to secure the safety of the ship, other ships, persons or property or to prevent or reduce significant pollution.