HC Deb 15 February 1977 vol 926 cc111-2W
Mr. Channon

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will extend the area of partially smooth water limits applicable to the Thames Estuary to the line from Orford Ness to the North Foreland.

Mr. Clinton Davis

Smooth and partially smooth waters are designated in order to ensure the safety of small craft, and those on board, which normally ply within the defined limits. A recent study of the Thames Estuary, which included the analysis of both meteorological and oceanographic data, concluded that no extension could be made to the present area of partially smooth water limits consistent with the safety considerations.

Forward to