§ Mr. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if it is his intention to hold an inquiry into the spillage of bunker oil at Sullom Voe.
Mr. MilianThroughout this incident my Department has been in close touch with the other Departments and agencies involved, in particular the Shetland Islands council and the oil industry. Local contingency plans were put promptly into operation from the outset although unfortunately mechanical failure and bad weather led to a substantial escape of fuel oil. All concerned are committed to learning and applying the lessons of the incident in the major review of local contingency plans currently being carried out between the Scottish Development Department and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities. My Department will provide Shetland Islands council with all necessary support in their review of their own contingency plans.