§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what estimate he has made of the percentage reduction, or other measure of reduction, of vehicle-carrying capacity of roll-on-roll-off ferry vessels that would he occasioned by the installation of removable bulkheads.
§ Mr. NorrisThis is a technical matter for the Marine Safety Agency. I have asked the chief executive to write to the hon. Member.
Letter from Robin Bradley to Mr. Nigel Spearing, dated 8 February 1995:
The Secretary of State for Transport has asked me to reply to your question about loss of vehicle carrying capacity on ro-ro ferries if removable bulkheads are installed.No general estimate has been made of the reduction in capacity consequent upon installing removable bulkheads on the car deck. The reduction of vehicle capacity will depend upon the size of the 259W ship and the vehicle loading and stowage arrangement. During the second half of 1990 a study was made into modifications that would be needed for existing ferries to meet the requirements known as SOLAS 90. The details are contained in the International Maritime Organization paper SLF 35/inf.7 a copy which is attached, and which you may find of interest.