§ Lord Kennetasked Her Majesty's Government:
What steps are being taken, and by whom, to ensure that reception facilities for chemical residues will be available by 6th April when the Merchant Shipping (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Order 1987 comes into force.
§ Lord Brabazon of TaraA number of steps have been taken by my department with regard to the provision of reception facilities for chemical tanker residues by 6th April 1987.
The Merchant Shipping, Prevention of Pollution (Reception Facilities) Order 1984, applies to harbour authorities and operators of terminals used by chemical tankers carrying noxious liquid substances (chemicals). Under this order, harbour authorities and terminal operators must ensure that reception facilities are provided and adequate from 6th April 1987. Where there is no provision of necessary facilities or the facilities provided are inadequate, then the Secretary of State may issue a directive as to suitable provision.
In order to assist those involved with the marine transport of chemicals in bulk and especially in the provision of reception facilities, my officials in conjunction with those of the Department of the Environment have held eight seminars throughout the country. Industry in general and those concerned with residue disposal attended these seminars and are fully aware of these new requirements.
In order to assist further in the adequate provision of these reception facilities, the Department of the Environment is also producing a set of regulations to facilitate the control and transfer of chemical residues to the shore and their onward transport for final disposal. My department will continue to keep under close review the provision of these facilities at the limited number of ports and terminals which handle these liquid chemicals.