§ Mr. MoateTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement indicating the frequency of surveys undertaken on the wreck of the SS Richard Montgomery close to the Isle of Sheppey; what are the current measures being taken to protect the wreck; and if he has any plans to review the policy of maintaining these measures and otherwise leaving the wreck undisturbed.
§ Mr. McLoughlinThe site of this dangerous wreck is designated as a prohibited area under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973. It has been clearly marked as such on charts, and by notices attached to the wreck. A notice to mariners has also been issued designating the site as a foul area where trespassers are liable to prosecution.
A number of surveys have been carried out in the wreck. Following expert advice, the last two surveys have been at roughly five-year intervals. As my hon. Friend is aware, the most recent survey was completed by September this year and I hope to make a statement as soon as we have reached conclusions about the findings.