Written question asked by David Shaw (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 10 March 1997. It was answered by John Bowis (Conservative) on Monday, 10 March 1997 on behalf of the Department of Transport.

Dept of Transport

Question: What arrangements are being made for the provision of emergency towing vessels next winter. - Inc fact that the three vessels will be re-engaged to provide emergency cover the next winter in the same areas.

Answer: Mr. David Shaw: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what arrangements are being made for the provision of emergency towing vessels next winter. [19844] Mr. Bowis: Emergency towing vessels have been stationed, on a trial basis, in the Minches and Dover strait for the last three winter periods and in the south-west approaches this winter, following recommendations by Lord Donaldson and the emergency towing study team. A report of the first two year's trials had been published. Further analysis of the trials is to be undertaken so that the benefits of the provision of such Government-funded vessels can be fully assessed. Meanwhile, the three vessels will be re-engaged to provide emergency cover the next winter in the same areas.

Secondary information