Written question asked by Alison Griffiths (Conservative) on Monday, 5 January 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 January 2026 (named day). It was answered by Samantha Dixon (Labour) on Friday, 16 January 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Shipping: Pollution Control

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what guidance is issued to local authorities on recording and recovering costs incurred during environmental clean-up operations following maritime incidents; and whether such guidance allows for costs incurred by organised charity, conservation, or wildlife groups supporting those clean-up efforts to be included within claims made against responsible commercial parties.

Answer: MHCLG is not responsible for maritime or environmental clean-up operations. The Lead Government Department responsibility for these sits with the Department for Transport and the Environment Agency, which are responsible for guidance to local authorities on these issues. I would also refer the hon Lady to the Answer my hon. Friend the Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Security gave to the Member for North West Norfolk (James Wild) on 29 April 2025 UIN 46848.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 103047
Session: 2024-26
Related items: MV Solong and MV Stena Immaculate: Accidents
Tuesday, 29 April 2025
Written questions
House of Commons
Grouped for answer: Yes
Subjects: Costs Pollution control Shipping
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk