§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has now considered the implications of the internal inquiry into the oil spillage from the tanker Sivand on 27 September; and if he has decided whether to hold a formal public investigation.
§ Mr. David MitchellI have considered my Department's inquiry and I am satisfied that the circumstances of the incident have been fully established. I do not propose to set up a public formal investigation since it is unlikely to throw further light on what is already known. A factual report based upon the Department's inquiry is being prepared for interested parties and I will send a copy to my hon. Friend.
The action necessary to prevent a repetition lies primarily with the port and navigational authorities on the Humber. 238W They are taking that action. My Department is co-operating with them in reviewing the implications of the incident and, in particular, the procedures for the movement of very large tankers in the Humber are being critically examined.