To ask the Minister of State, Department for Transport what recent discussions his Department has had with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency on the removal of distress flares and other pyrotechnic devices from vessels registered under the UK flag. (282929)

No discussions have taken place recently between officials in the Department for Transport and its executive agencies about the removal of distress flares and other pyrotechnic devices from vessels registered under the UK flag.

Requirements to carry flares on UK ships are regulated by The Merchant Shipping (Life-Saving Appliances For Ships Other Than Ships Of Classes III To VI(A)) Regulations 1999, which enact the UK's international obligations under SOLAS Chapter III.

Marine Guidance Note 287 advises UK ship operators on the disposal of out of date pyrotechnics.