HC Deb 31 January 1996 vol 270 cc807-8W
Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what guidance is given to magistrates on the appropriate level of fines under the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution) Regulations 1983. [12154]

Mr. Norris

None.

Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many convictions there have been made under the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution) Regulations 1983 in each of the years for which figures are available; and what was the average fine each year. [12153]

Mr. Norris

Precise information on individual fines imposed is not held centrally. Estimates are, however, available from the advisory committee on pollution of the sea.

Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he intends to bring into force proposals authorised in the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution) (Law of the Sea Convention) Order 1995. [12191]

Mr. Norris

Subject to approval of the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution) (Law of the Sea Convention) Order 1995 by the Privy Council, we would hope to bring into force regulations extending jurisdiction over oil pollution before the end of March. Regulations on pollution by garbage and noxious liquid substances should follow shortly afterwards.

Mr. Allen

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the maximum fine for illegal dumping at sea; and how many times it has been levied since 1983. [12152]

Mr. Norris

There is no maximum fine for convictions secured in the crown court. For convictions in magistrates courts, the maxima are £50,000 for illegal discharges of oil, and £5,000 for other discharge offences. Precise information on individual fines imposed is not available. My noble Friend the Minister for Aviation and Shipping announced on 24 January the Government's intention to seek a five-fold increase in these maxima to £250,000 and £25,000 respectively.