§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he will take in the implementation of the new EC habitats and species directive to safeguard key coastal and inshore waters from oil pollution.
§ Mr. Maclean[holding answer 15 January 1993]: The Government are considering what measures are necessary to implement the EC directive on the conservation of habitats and of wild flora and fauna. Proposals will be issued for consultation in the coming month. The inquiry under Lord Donaldson announced on 11 January by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport will consider whether any further measures are appropriate and feasible to protect the United Kingdom coast from pollution from merchant shipping giving due consideration to the international and economic implications of any new measures.