HC Deb 20 January 1994 vol 235 c830W
Mr. David Atkinson

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the recent pollution by oil of Bournemouth's beaches; and what plans he has to investigate responsibility for this.

Mr. Atkins

Oil pollution at the tideline was found on a stretch of beach from Hengistbury head to West cliff. Mudeford harbour beaches were also affected. The local authorities cleared the oil from the beaches and a number of oiled birds were taken away for cleaning. It was not possible to identify the source responsible and no further action is, therefore, planned.