Written question asked by Chris Pond (Labour) on Thursday, 11 April 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 April 2002. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Thursday, 18 April 2002 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what her estimate is of the public cost associated with the collision of the Sand Lite with the Thames Barrier. - Inc figure.

Answer: Mr. Pond: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her estimate is of the public cost associated with the collision of the Sand Lite with the Thames Barrier. [49916] Mr. Morley: The dredger Sand Kite collided with one of the piers of the Thames Barrier and deposited a quantity of gravel on one of the operating gates. I understand that the remedial works costs to date have been reimbursed to the Environment Agency from the vessel's insurers and have not therefore resulted in any public cost. I further understand that there is some additional remedial painting and removal of gravel from inside the gate recess, to be carried out this summer, that may not be covered by the insurers and may result in a public cost of some £100,000. This is expected be met from Environment Agency's operational budget with a contribution from the Port of London Authority.

Secondary information