§ Mr. WatersonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what proposals he has to alter the arrangements for stationing of salvage tugs around the United Kingdom coastline; and if he will make a statement. [13147]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThree Government-funded vessels are on station to provide emergency towage primarily for the Dover Strait, North-West Scotland and the South-West Approaches. The current contracts expire on 31 March 1998. The future provision of emergency towing vessels is being considered as part of the Department's Comprehensive Spending Review. A decision will be announced as soon as possible.