Time running out to save coastguard tugs 19/12/11
SNP MP Angus MacNeil has tabled questions in the House of Commons regarding the future of the emergency towing vessel services in the waters around his constituency.
At the end of September, the Secretary of State for Scotland, Michael Moore MP stated that the emergency towing vessel services in the Minches of the Hebrides of Scotland were given a three month extension. In January they come to an end.
The power to save these tugs is reserved to the UK Parliament.
Mr MacNeil said: “One month from now the interim tug contracts come to an end. We need to know what measures are in place to insure the safety of our seas.
“These tugs have been integral in saving lives and property from fishing boats to Naval Submarines.
“This measure was a temporary one and we need a better long-
“Therefore, I am asking now; what has this Government done to secure this vital Scottish maritime safety service?
“Safety and jobs are on the line and the clock is ticking.”