MPs call for devolution of responsibility for ship-to-ship oil transfers

"THREE Scottish politicians have called for decision on the ship-to-ship (STS) oil transfers in the Cromarty Firth to be devolved to the Scottish Government.

Ross, Skye and Lochaber MP Ian Blackford has tabled a Commons question to UK Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin, asking what consultations his department would be having with Holyrood’s Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead regarding a licence in the area.

Powers over STS transfers are reserved to Westminster, but the Scottish Government is responsible for environmental protection, including marine and coastal environments."

Read the full story in The National.