HC Deb 30 October 1912 vol 43 cc450-1
91. Sir HILDRED CARLILE

asked if the right hon. Gentleman has approached, or has been approached by, any other Powers with a view to securing international agreement as to the provision of life-saving appliances on ocean-going steamers; and, if not, whether he proposes to take any action in the matter?

Mr. BUXTON

Preliminary communications are taking place with the Governments of a few of the principal countries interested, with a view of endeavouring to find a basis for an international agreement on this important matter. As I have already informed the House, it is not proposed to defer the revision of life-saving rules until the conclusion of such an agreement which may take some time to arrive at.

Sir H. CARL1LE

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the protests now being made?

Mr. BUXTON

In regard to this question of satisfaction, of course, one likes to improve things in this world whenever there is an opportunity of so doing. The negotiations are proceeding.