To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport whether he has powers to invoke legal measures to protect historic sea or river vessels where a registered owner does not demonstrate a duty of care. (206676)

[holding answer 19 May 2008]: The Secretary of State has no such powers in relation to historic sea or river vessels except where they are permanent land-based listed structures. Such vessels may be designated as listed buildings or scheduled ancient monuments if they meet relevant criteria.