§ Mr. WatersonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what steps he is taking to apprehend and punish ships making illegal discharges of oil off the British coast; and if he will make a statement. [65571]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThe Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has a dedicated Enforcement Unit based at its headquarters in Southampton.
The Unit is charged to investigate all offences under the Merchant Shipping legislation and this includes pollution offences. In less than 11 months since the formation of this Unit, 7 shipowners have been convicted for pollution offences.
The UK and its European partners co-ordinate surveillance and detection of suspected polluters using sophisticated technology. Under the UK Regulations, ships suspected of pollution can be detained in port pending investigation.
Since September 1997, the maximum fine before Magistrates for pollution from ships was raised to £250,000. The maximum fine before the Crown Court is unlimited.
The MCA is committed to vigorously enforcing the anti-pollution legislation and will not hesitate to prosecute offenders whenever appropriate.