Parliamentary Questions - Written Replies

OIL DISASTER: The public inquiry aimed at preventing another Shetland disaster will cover all aspects of navigation, hazardous cargoes and pollution treatment, John MacGregor, Secretary of State for Transport, said.

The investigation will not look into the cause of last month's wreck of the Braer. That is being undertaken by the Marine Accident Investigations Branch and the Liberian government.

Mr MacGregor said the exact terms of reference for Lord Donaldson's inquiry would include:

What incidents could occur in the future which could damage the coastline;

How they might arise;

What steps can be taken to make such incidents much less likely to happen;

What steps can be taken to reduce or eliminate the adverse effects of such an incident.