§ Mr. Adleyasked the Secretary of State for Trade, if, following the "Amoco Cadiz" disaster, he will immediately open discussions with the French Government with a view to keeping oil-tankers 12 miles or more offshore of Great Britain and France except when entering or leaving port; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisProhibition of tankers from approaching within 12 miles of the coast of Great Britain and France would conflict with international law on the right of innocent passage. It would also make it impossible for tankers to pass through the Dover Straits, where the safety record has improved in recent years. However, while this prohibition is not considered a practical proposition, I shall be discussing with the French authorities all the lessons to be learnt from the "Amoco Cadiz" disaster.