HC Deb 06 May 1924 vol 173 c201
10. Major BURNIE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that dissatisfaction exists among seafarers owing to the imposition of a fee for examination in lifeboat drill, and that, although theoretically voluntary, pressure is brought to bear upon seamen to pass the test; and, as it is solely for the benefit of the travelling public, whether he will consider the desirability of conducting the examination without imposing any fee?

Mr. WEBB

Representations have been made to the Board of Trade about the fee charged for the examination of life-boatmen's certificates, and I am glad to say that it has been found possible to reduce the fee from 2s. to 1s., as from the first of this month.

Viscount CURZON

In view of the fact that the total sum realised by these fees is only about £2,000 a year, can the right hon. Gentleman not see his way to do away with them?

Mr. WEBB

I will have the matter represented in the proper quarter.