§ Ms. WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what were the staffing levels in the marine accident investigation unit for each of the last 10 years; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. McLoughlinThe hon. Lady will, of course, be aware that the marine accident investigation branch was set up by Parliament two years ago. Therefore. I am unable to answer the question as submitted.
When the marine accident investigation branch was set up, the initial staff level was set at 15, and this was achieved by February 1990. The present level has increased to 21.