§ Mr. Nicholas BennettTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the effects of the oil spillage in the Milford Haven on 3 December on the ecology and environment of the Haven, and the action being taken to mitigate the consequences of this accident.
§ Mr. GristOil from the spillage has affected about eight miles of coastline on both sides of the Haven and at least 300 birds. It has also affected the fishing industry including fish farms in the Haven, one salmon unit in particular having been heavily contaminated.
The Department of Transport's marine pollution control unit is satisfied that the harbour authority, Texaco and the local authorities are working together effectively to deal with the situation. The district inspector of fisheries has also been keeping a close watch on the effect on fisheries.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the Nature Conservancy Council are dealing with the effect on the birds. In particular, affected swans have been sent to appropriate centres for treatment.