Oil Spill Off Huntington Beach

In your editorial you wrote, “The most sensible and logical requirement is that all new tankers be fitted with double bottoms and hulls.”

I am writing to call your attention to the note in this month’s issue of Technology Review published by the M.I.T. Assn. of Alumni. It says “Swedish engineers suggested in 1985 that oil tankers be built or refitted so that the empty space at the top of a cargo-hold is airtight. Were the hold punctured, air could be pumped out, so atmospheric pressure on the water around a ship could stem oil spillage.”

This would be simpler than double bottoms and hulls. Why not consider this solution?

EDWARD C. PERRY II

Palm Springs