§ Lord Onslow of Wokingasked Her Majesty's Government:
What recent representations they have received about the operation of the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973; and what steps are being taken to ensure that this legislation continues to be effectively enforced. [HL3832]
§ Lord McIntosh of HaringeyMy right honourable friend the Secretary of State has been sent a copy by the noble Lord of a letter addressed to him from Mr. Michael Williams of the South-West Maritime Archaeological Group. Among other issues, this letter commented on the operation of the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973. The noble Lord will be receiving a reply shortly to this correspondence.
It is a criminal offence under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973 for any person to engage in certain conduct within a designated area without a licence granted by the relevant Secretary of State. Licences are issued on the advice of the Advisory Committee on Historic Wreck Sites and will stipulate certain conditions to ensure that appropriate archaeological standards are maintained on designated sites. Although responsibility for policing or prosecuting offences under the 1973 Act lies with the relevant police force, my department does provide advice, where necessary, about the provisions of the Act. Steps are being undertaken to ensure that all police forces are aware of their responsibilities under the 1973 Act.