HC Deb 25 June 1958 vol 590 c31W
70. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation how many prosecutions took place last year arising out of pollution of the sea by oil; if he is aware that the pollution of some beaches is as bad now as it has ever been, and that bathers and their clothes are covered with oil; and if he will take further steps to prevent this by making it compulsory for all oilburning and oil-carrying vessels to have separators installed.

Mr. Watkinson

The answers to the three parts of this Question are as follows. First—46; second—I am aware of the recent outbreak of oil pollution of some of our beaches and I greatly regret this deterioration in an otherwise improved situation; third—those dry-cargo ships registered in the United Kingdom which use their bunker fuel tanks for ballast water are required to be fitted with oily-water separators as from 1st July next. The extension of this requirement to other classes of ships is not necessary because other steps are taken to avoid pollution.

75. Mr. Callaghan

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he is aware of the renewal of oil pollution in Southampton Water in early May; and what steps are being taken to trace those responsible.

Mr. Watkinson

As I said in my Answer to my hon. Friend, the Member for Gosport and Fareham (Dr. Bennett) on 21st May, the evidence is that the oil came from a tanker of foreign flag. I understand that the Southampton Harbour Board will take proceedings against the master of the ship when he returns to this country.

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