asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he will support any European proposal to have international agreement on the limit to the size of oil tankers so as to prevent serious disasters of oil spillage and to avoid the heavy cost of repairing coastal damage as a result of accidential spillage; if he will make a statement on the matter; and, if no such proposal has come to hand, if he will consider making such a proposal as a matter of urgency.
Written Answers . - Oil Spillages .
151.
: I am aware from newspaper reports that it has been suggested that the size of oil tankers should be regulated. I am not, however, aware of any formal proposal in this regard before any international forum.
The question of limiting the size of oil tankers is a far-reaching one which would have to be considered in a broad context taking account of both economic and safety considerations, including the consideration advanced by some experts that a limitation in tanker size would lead to increased numbers of tankers and consequently increased congestion in certain waters.
The Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organisation, which is the specialised agency of the United Nations dealing with maritime affairs, is the appropriate international body to examine questions of a technological nature relating to shipping. The organisation has in recent years drawn up a considerable body of rules designed to promote marine safety and eliminate oil pollution of the sea. These include rules relating to tank arrangements and the limitation of tank sizes in tankers.
The requirements and safety standards prescribed at international level are subject to a continuous process of updating to take account of technological and other developments. Following on the Amoco Cadiz disaster the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organisation has undertaken a special review of the various maritime safety and sea pollution issues arising therefrom, including research into the steering and manoeuvrability aspects of large tankers. I am of course greatly concerned to ensure that all practicable steps are taken to reduce the risk of oil spillages. My Department accordingly participate fully in the international deliberations on this matter and support all appropriate and practicable measures calculated to eliminate oil pollution of the sea caused by ships.