§ Mr. Prescottasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will call for an inquiry into the explosion and sinking of the British flag vessel "Gold Joy" with the loss of three lives.
§ Mr. NobleI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the "Golden Jay". This vessel, registered in Bermuda and owned by United States interests, exploded and sank off the Mexican coast on 14th May. Three United States citizens, engaged on repair work, lost their lives. The remainder of the crew were Greek citizens, except the radio officer, who was a citizen of the Republic of Ireland. All have been repatriated. In the circumstances, and especially the lack of evidence, I consider that no practical purpose would be served by holding a preliminary inquiry.