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Written question asked by Lord West of Spithead (Labour) on Thursday, 16 March 2017, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 30 March 2017. It was answered by Earl Howe (Conservative) on Monday, 27 March 2017 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

World War II: Wrecks

Question

To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether the war graves of HMS Prince of Wales and Repulse have had most of their after sections destroyed and removed.

Answer

The Ministry of Defence works closely with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office when there is evidence of illegal salvage of our vessels overseas. The Government is aware of the illegal removal of material from the wrecks of HMS PRINCE OF WALES and HMS REPULSE. We strongly condemn any desecration of any site of maritime military remains. By invoking the principle of Sovereign Immunity, and by designating specific vessels under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973 and the Protection of Maritime Remains Act 1986, we endeavour to protect these important sites where we are able.

Where we have evidence of desecration of the wrecks of Royal Navy vessels, we will take appropriate action, including working with regional Governments and partners to prevent inappropriate activity at such sites. It should be appreciated however, given that Royal Navy wrecks are spread throughout vast locations around the world, that there are limitations on what protection we can provide.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL6154
Session
2016-17
Related items
World War II: Wrecks
Friday, 7 April 2017
Written questions
House of Lords
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Theft World War II War graves HMS Repulse HMS Prince of Wales (wreck)
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk