HC Deb 23 November 1982 vol 32 cc462-3W
Mr. Parry

asked the Minister for Trade (1) if he is satisfied that the vessel "Nesam", which sank on 14 November, was in a seaworthy condition; and whether the crew were competent;

(2) if he will make a statement on the sinking of the "Nesam";

(3) what representations he has received calling for a public inquiry into the sinking of the "Nesam";

(4) if he will order a public inquiry into the sinking of the "Nesam".

Mr. Sproat

[pursuant to his reply, 22 November 1982, c. 324]: The "Nesam", a general cargo ship of 1,571 gross tons, was built in 1958 and owned by Annan Shipping Ltd., Annan, Dumfriesshire. The ship left Casablanca on 9 November 1982 with a cargo of phosphates for Whitehaven, where she was expected to arrive on 15 November 1982.

At 19.02 hours on 14 November 1982 a distress message was received from the "Nesam" saying that the ship had developed a severe list whilst in a position some 65 miles south west of the Isles of Scilly in weather reported to be severe gale force 9. The last contact with the ship was at 19.09 hours. By 02.40 hours on 15 November 1982 it was reported that six of the 11 crew members had been rescued by a Sea King helicopter and four bodies had been recovered. The survivors were the second deck officer, chief engineer officer, third engineer officer, bosun, cook and a deck boy. The deceased crew members were the master, second engineer officer and two seamen. The missing crew member was the chief deck officer.

My Department has commenced a preliminary inquiry under section 465 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894 in an endeavour to establish the circumstances and the possible cause of the casualty. The scope of this inquiry will take into account all matters relevant to the casualty, including the condition of the ship and the number and qualifications of the crew.

The preliminary inquiry will be completed as soon as possible, consistent with a thorough investigation, when I will consider, in the light of the report, whether to order a public inquiry or what further action is necessary. The National Union of Seamen has asked for a public inquiry to be held.

I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the families and relations of those who have lost their lives in this tragic casualty.