Lib Dem MP calls on Minister to block Forth oil transfer plan

4.48.51pm GMT Thu 30th Nov 2006

John Barrett, Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West, has tabled a motion to Parliament, calling Labour Ministers not to give the go-ahead for controversial ship-to-ship oil transfer plans in the Firth of Forth.

The motion was tabled following the publication of the assessment of oil-spill risks, prepared by consultants for Melbourne Marine Services, the company behind the oil transfer proposals.

The report, obtained through a freedom of information request, has been heavily criticised by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and environmental and animal welfare groups for failing to provide sufficient protection to wildlife in the Forth.

Mr Barrett has called for the controversial plans to be blocked if there is any risk to wildlife or habitats around the Forth. He has also argued for stronger regulations governing similar proposals and stressed the importance of the consideration of local people.

The final decision on whether to give the controversial plans the go-ahead will be made by Forth Ports, the harbouring authority. The company stands to make at least £6m if the plans for ship-to-ship oil transfer is given the go-ahead.

John Barrett said, "It is crucial that Forth Ports take into account the whole range of views from experts, environmental groups and from communities around the Forth. Local people will rightly be outraged if they feel a decision has been made based on the views of hired consultants.

"There has been almost universal opposition to these proposals from local people, environmental groups and parliamentarians. Any accident would result in an ecological disaster. The stakes are far too high for us to take any chances.

"I am not opposed to ship to ship oil transfer taking place off Scotland's coastlines and I recognise the benefits it can bring. However it is blatantly clear that the Firth of Forth is not an appropriate site, given its vital ecological importance.

"It is plainly ridiculous that the final decision as it stands will rest with Forth Ports when they stand to make millions of pounds from the plans. This further underlines the urgent need for proper regulation in this area.

"I hope that this motion will add to the pressure on Forth Ports to see sense on this issue and rule out what is a risky and unnecessary proposal."