Beverley and Holderness MP Graham Stuart has provided an urgent update to residents following the dramatic collision between the oil tanker Stena Immaculate and cargo ship Solong in the North Sea. After pressing ministers for the latest details, Graham confirmed that while risks remain, the situation is largely under control.
The biggest relief comes from environmental concerns—there is no evidence so far of any heavy engine oil leaking from either vessel. Additionally, the Solong, now three miles offshore south of the Humber, has been secured with a line attached for towing by a tug.
Initial fears that the cargo ship was carrying dangerous chemicals have been debunked. Graham, a former climate minister reaffirmed that the sodium cyanide containers were empty, and there are no signs of pollution in the water or air. No containers appear to have fallen overboard. Meanwhile, the Solong is still smoking, but reassuringly, no flames are visible.
The Stena Immaculate remains at anchor, with its jet oil cargo believed to have burned off completely. Because of its purity, the fuel is expected to leave no residue in the water, though testing kits are being deployed to confirm this.
Despite these positive developments, Graham acknowledged that risks remain. There is still a possibility of heavy engine oil leaking, but response teams are ready—booms and oil collection equipment are already stationed in Grimsby should the situation change.
Graham confirmed that the government will provide another update by Thursday, and he pledged to keep constituents informed. He also expressed condolences for the crew member who lost his life and praised the heroic efforts of the Coast Guard, RNLI, and other rescuers who risked their own lives in the response effort.
This latest update brings some reassurance, but authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.