Written question asked by Andrew Mackinlay (Labour) on Monday, 15 January 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 11 May 2001. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Friday, 11 May 2001 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make a statement on the extent of trespass by divers, collectors and archaeologists on the site of (a) HMS Repulse and (b) HMS Prince of Wales and the associated war graves; and what action he is taking to stop such activities. - Includes ref to 14 February 2001 at 363 c132W.

Answer: Mr. Mackinlay: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the extent of trespass by divers, collectors and archaeologists on the site of (a) HMS Repulse and (b) HMS Prince of Wales and the associated war graves; and what action he is taking to stop such activities. [146063] Dr. Moonie: [holding answer 23 January 2001]: We are aware of several reported diving expeditions that have taken place in the vicinity of both HMS Prince of Wales and Repulse. Our High Commission in Singapore and Malaysia where possible will continue to monitor the situation locally. I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave on 14 February 2001, Official Report, 132W, to my hon. Friend the Member for Jarrow (Mr. Hepburn).

Secondary information