§ Dr. David Clarkasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the environmental effects of the MV Bridgeness running aground on the Hats and Barrels reef off south-west Wales on 16 June.
§ Mr. Wyn RobertsInitial indications are that about 2,100 birds have been affected by oil to varying degrees following the oil spillage resulting from the MV Bridgeness incident off the south-west Wales coast. The birds were mainly on the islands of Grassholme, Skomer, Ramsey and Bishops and Clerks and were principally guillemots, puffins and razor bills. There were very few gannets affected. In addition, about 400 dead birds have been taken off the shore.
There is no risk to grey seals or otters, and there is no direct effect of the oil spill on fisheries in the area. No significant quantities of oil have reached the mainland shore, but local authorities continue to keep a close watch on the situation.
As it will be several weeks before a full assessment can be made of the long-term effects of the incident on birdlife in this important breeding area, I shall write to the hon. Gentleman when this has been completed.