§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what measures his Department is taking to protect the breeding populations along the Welsh coastline from oil spillages. [32579]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsA number of Welsh marine sites are being considered for designation as Special Areas of Conservation under the European Council Habitats 151W Directive. Management plans are being drawn up for these sites in consultation with all relevant authorities, including those with shipping interests. In October, my right hon. Friend submitted the Pembrokeshire Islands, which incorporates the busy Milford Haven waterway, as a candidate SAC.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions is also taking measures to prevent accidental spills. These include the rigorous enforcement of international rules and standards and the funding of three emergency towing vessels, including one in the South Western Approaches. In addition, international agreement has been obtained to a ban on virtually all operational discharges in UK waters, penalties for offenders have been increased, and port waste management planning is now mandatory for all ports, harbours and marinas.