Call for second towing vessel

The UK Government has been urged to tender for a second emergency towing vessel to police the waters around the Highlands and Islands.

The plea came from the Highlands and Islands Conveners’ Group, with support from local harbour masters and KIMO, the international local authorities environmental organisation, who remain convinced that without two such tugs on permanent stand-by, the risk of an avoidable disaster becomes ever more likely, particularly with the onset of bad weather.

The group has written to the Rt Hon Michael Moore, Secretary of State for Scotland, urging action from the Government.