§ Sir Bernard Braineasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether, in view of the recent incident when the empty ammunition ship "Katherine Mitchell" collided with the sea wall at Canvey Island in foggy conditions close to an oil wharf and other high fire risk installations, he will, as a matter of urgency, inquire into the need for all vessels above 50 gross registered tons moving in estuarial waters to be fitted with operational VHF radio and radar.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisThe carriage of VHF radio and radar by vessels moving in estuarial waters is primarily a matter for the harbour authorities concerned.
The Port of London Authority, in exercise of its powers under the Port of London Act 1968, has issued general directions to vessels in the Thames on this matter and a copy is being sent to the hon. Member. The authority is carrying out an investigation into the incident involving the "Katherine Mitchell", the outcome of which will be considered by my Department to see what further action might be required.