§ 140. Mr. R. Robinsonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he has considered a letter addressed to his Department on 8th September by the Association of Health and Pleasure Resorts complaining of the serious nuisance and damage caused through the pollution of the beaches of seaside resorts by oily and tarry deposits; and what action he proposes to take to prevent such damage being caused by ships of the Royal Navy.
§ Mr. W. J. EdwardsYes, and a reply was made on 21st September. There is no indication in the letter from the Association of Health and Pleasure Resorts that the pollution complained of has been caused by His Majesty's ships. King's Regulations and Admiralty instructions already forbid the pumping overboard in harbour or basin or within 50 miles of any coast of oil fuel, oily refuse, or bilge water, etc., which may contain oil fuel residue, and the attention of the Fleet has been called to this Regulation by Admiralty Fleet Order. If, at any time, there is evidence to show that these instructions are not being complied with by His Majesty's ships, I should be prepared to institute inquiries and take suitable action.
§ 146. Mr. R. Robinsonasked the Minister of Transport whether he has considered a letter addressed to his Department on 8th September by the Association of Health and Pleasure Resorts complaining of the serious nuisance and damage caused through the pollution of the beaches of seaside resorts by oily and tarry deposits; and what action he proposes to take on the matter.
§ Mr. BarnesYes. A reply was sent to the Association on 20th September. As these complaints usually follow a period of heavy weather, it seems likely that the pollution is caused by the breaking up of wrecks. But if evidence is forthcoming that oil is being discharged from ships action can be taken under the Oil in172W Navigable Waters Act, 1922. I draw the attention of shipmasters to their obligations in this matter at regular intervals.