§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list which annexes of the international convention for the prevention of pollution from ships Her Majesty's Government has not yet ratified; and if he will make a statement as to the reasons for not ratifying in each particular case.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerIn common with many other countries, Her Majesty's Government have not ratified annex IV of the international convention for the prevention of pollution from ships 1973. There are some major areas of concern for many countries which will need detailed discussion at the International Maritime Organisation. Ratification will be considered when the review of this annex is complete.