§ Mr. Moateasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what increase, in total tonnage, number and size of vessels has taken place and is anticipated for merchant vessels using the Medway estuary; and if he is satisfied that the increasing us of the channel in no way increases the danger of collision with, or disturbance of, the wreck of the ammunition ship s.s. "Richard Montgomery".
§ Mr. Anthony GrantCargo carried has increased by about 17 per cent. since 1964. The annual number of ships has not increased though the largest size has doubled. Ships of 200,000 tons deadweight may well be using the Medway in 1972 and cargo tonnage may increase by 4 per cent. These changes should not increase the dangers bearing in mind the improvement in aids to navigation over the years.