HC Deb 11 February 1982 vol 17 cc464-5W
Mr. Adley

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what control he exercises over decisions concerning the mooring of vessels containing dangerous and inflammable cargoes immediately adjacent to heavily populated areas; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Giles Shaw

I have no powers of control over such moorings except in so far as they may be associated with development of land subject to planning control under the Town and Country Planning Acts.

Mr. Adley

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has been advised of the proposal to moor a liquid petroleum gas tanker in the Solent; if so, on what date; and whether he has had any discussions with adjacent local authorities about the matter.

Mr. Giles Shaw

This proposal is not one which falls to be notified to the Department under any statutory procedure, and we have not accordingly consulted local authorities about it. However, I am aware of the proposal and that, in making its decision, the British Transport Docks Board will take into account the views of the local authorities concerned, the advice of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade on navigational aspects, and that of the Health and Safety Executive on safety implications. They will also take into account the recreational aspects.