§ 58. Mr. Kennedyasked the Secretary of State for Transport what investigations his Department have made into the likely environmental consequences of a spillage from a large, crude oil-carrying tanker in the Minch; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellThe consequences of an oil spillage depend on a number of factors, including the amount of oil spilt, its type, the weather and tidal conditions at the time and the speed within which a clean-up operation can be mounted.
My Departments marine pollution control unit spends just over £1 million a year on research into methods of dealing with pollution accidents at sea and on the beaches. This research is directed to the minimising of environmental effects, but it is not normally related to any particular section of coastline.