HC Deb 08 February 1979 vol 962 c293W
Mr. Warren

asked the Secretary of State for Environment if he will make a statement about the containers of chemical washed ashore on the East Sussex coast during the last week; and what action Her Majesty's Government are taking to identify their source.

Mr. Denis Howell

Thirteen drums containing various chemicals have been found on the East Sussex and Kent coasts over the last 10 days. These containers have been taken into safe custody by the county councils concerned pending identification, removal and disposal of the contents.

It has not yet been possible to identify a source or sources from the markings on the containers. However, these details are being checked against reports of cargo losses from ships received by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade.