§ Mr. AllasonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he has taken to determine the ownership and current registration of the former minelayer, MUL16. [15556]
§ Mr. NorrisI have asked the chief executive of the Marine Safety Agency to write to my hon. Friend.
Letter from R. M. Bradley to Mr. Rupert Allason, dated 20 February 1996:
The Secretary of State for Transport has asked me to reply to your question about the former Swedish minelayer MUL 16.As you know the ship was detained by surveyors from the Marine Safety Agency on 18 August 1995 at Poole Harbour. The ship was subsequently allowed to move to Southampton in order to rectify deficiencies. She remains under detention in Southampton. The ship will not be allowed to go to sea until the Agency is satisfied that it is safe to do so.You asked what steps have been taken to determine her ownership and current registration. In my letter to you of 29 November I explained that the MSA had attempted, unsuccessfully, to confirm registry so as to establish which maritime administration, if any, was responsible for the ship.An application has been made to register the vessel under the UK flag. The Registrar General of Seamen and Shipping is currently waiting for a number of documents, including proof of ownership, before proceeding. Checks will also be made to confirm that the vessel is not registered elsewhere.