§ Andrew GeorgeTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions his Department has had with(a) French authorities, (b) Breton authorities, (c) the Ministry of Defence and (d) others following the sinking of the Bugaled Breizh off The Lizard on 15 January. [150988]
§ Mr. JamiesonThe Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) of the Department for Transport has been providing proactive support and advice to their counterparts in France—Bureau Enquêtes-Accidents Mer—since the loss of the Bugaled Breizh. During the incident, HM Coastguard at Falmouth was in regular contact with French search and rescue authorities regarding details of the stricken vessel, and maintained regular contact with them throughout the incident. Subsequently, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has provided French authorities with assistance in attempting to identify the movement of shipping within the area of the accident.
No specific discussions have been held with Breton regional authority separately from French national authorities.
The MAIB has been in contact with the UK Ministry of Defence with regard to the fact that the accident took place in a designated sea training exercise area.
Discussions have also taken place between MAIB/ MCA and Devon and Cornwall police and HM coroner in Truro.