§ Mr. SandersTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) if he will implement the recommendations in the Friends of the Earth report on the Erica oil spill relating to transportation of maritime cargoes; [111922]
(2) if he will review Government policies on the transportation of maritime cargoes to take account of the Erica oil spill of 12 December; and if he will make a statement; [111921]
(3) if he will discuss with other EU member states changes to strengthen MARPOL regulations by including stricter regulations for older vessels, and regulation of flags of convenience; and if he will make a statement. [111924]
§ Mr. HillTransport of maritime cargoes is an internationally regulated business and accordingly my Department is already in discussion with counterparts in the relevant international and European organisations to determine a practical programme for enhanced protection against maritime pollution. The Friends of the Earth report on the Erika oil spill is being taken into account in that consideration, as is the potential benefit of improved collective enforcement of the MARPOL Convention and14W other relevant regulations. The case for additional international regulations is also being assessed by the Government and neighbouring administrations.