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Written question asked by Lord MacKenzie of Culkein (Labour) on Monday, 20 July 2015, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 3 August 2015. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Wednesday, 22 July 2015 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Tugboats: Hebrides

Question

To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether any further assessment has been made of the regular availability of commercial tugs in the sea area of the Inner and Outer Hebrides following recent groundings; and whether they will reinstate a Coastguard Emergency Towing Vessel to cover this sea area.

Answer

The Government-funded Emergency Towing Vessel in Scotland provides coverage for both the Northern and Western Isles of Scotland. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is not aware of any occasions where a casualty vessel in need of a tow around the Western Isles has not been provided with a successful and effective towage service. No ship has grounded or sunk, nor has there been any pollution caused by a lack of an available tow.

The Government will continue to keep the need for a towing capability under review as part of its assessment of spending priorities.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL1692
Session
2015-16
Subjects
Hebrides Tugboats
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk