§ Ms. RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport to which bridge the river police directed the fire boat when they first heard of the collision between the Marchioness and the Bowbelle on the River Thames on 20 August 1989; when the fire boat and other emergency services were subsequently directed to another bridge; and what was the interval between the directions.
§ Mr. Peter Lloyd[holding answer 16 July 1990]: I have been asked to reply.
I understand that the marine accident investigation branch of the Department of Transport has included a 24W review of the whole rescue operation as part of its investigation and that the role of Thames division of the Metropolitan police will be covered in the chief inspctor's report.