The collision in the North Sea yesterday has shocked and worried us all. My thoughts are with those on board, especially the family of the missing crew member. This highlights the dangers faced by those who work at sea, from large container ships to our fishing fleet.
I would like to thank the Coastguard, RNLI and emergency services who raced to the rescue in the last 24 hours and who continue to battle with the fires at sea. In particular, we should be proud of constituents who volunteer with the RNLI and Coastguard and who continue to support the operational response, as part of their duties looking after our coastline each and every day.
I am liaising with local Coastguards and ELDC to offer my support and to track the emerging impacts on our coastline and local area, including environmental and health concerns.
I will continue to engage with local bodies and the Government to ensure that this is dealt with swiftly and that any potential impacts are mitigated as fully and quickly as possible.
