HL Deb 09 May 1985 vol 463 cc852-3WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government.

How many vessels flying the British flag are capable of engaging in trade between the United Kingdom and Soviet ports serving the areas of Siberia now being developed, and in prospect of development.

Lord Brabazon of Tara

This information is not available. However, there are 271 United Kingdom-registered merchant ships which have been strengthened for navigation in ice, and some of these may be capable of trading in the limited season available in Soviet ports serving Siberia.