§ Mr. McNamaraasked the Seretary of State for Trade if he will make a statement about the operation to decontaminate the "Asiafreighter".
§ Mr. Clinton DavisThe operation to clear the "Asiafreighter's" hold of arsine gas by use of the ship's ventilation systems in an unfrequented area far out at sea was successfully concluded on 27th November 1974, when samples of the air at the exhaust vents showed no trace of the gas. None the less, there was still a possibility that pockets might remain in the hold, and it was therefore entered and tested by the Managing Director of Air Products (UK) Ltd. on the same day. Samples in the lowest parts of the hold again showed no signs of gas. The vessel was therefore allowed to proceed to Rotterdam for the unloading of the cargo destined for that port. As my right hon. Friend informed the House on 18th November 1974—[Vol. 881, c. 896-8.]— he appointed an inspector to investigate the incident under Section 728 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894. The inspector went to Rotterdam to be present for the opening of the affected container. We shall consider what further action is necessary when we receive his report.
I should like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation of the efforts and the undoubted courage of the master and his officers, the Managing Director of Air Products Ltd. of New Maiden, and his colleagues, and Dr. Roy Goulding of Guy's Hospital, all of whom went to sea on this vessel to undertake the task of clearing the hold. While every step was taken to ensure their safety and none has been affected by gas, their actions to resolve a dangerous situation, which was in no way of their making, deserve high commendation.
I am sure that all Members of the House will join me in wishing those 572W members of the crew who were earlier affected by the gas and are still in hospital a swift recovery.