HC Deb 05 March 1928 vol 214 cc807-8
41. Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the examination for the Board of Trade certificate for masters and mates, and the curriculum leading up to it, is based upon a practice of navigation not now commonly used in oceangoing vessels; and at what date the whole subject was last considered, with a view to bringing the examination into line with modern practice?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Herbert Williams)

I am unable to accept the suggestion contained in the first part of the question. The examination regulations are frequently revised. The last revision was made in 1925, and a Committee, on which the various interests are represented and under the Chairmanship of the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Swansea West (Mr. Runciman), is now considering whether further revision is required.

Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

May I ask how it is that, if this examination is on entirely up-to-date lines, it is necessary to have another committee two years after the last revision?

Mr. WILLIAMS

I think it is because the conditions of navigation are constantly altering, and it is, therefore, necessary to bring the examinations up to date from time to time.

Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

Can my hon. Friend tell us if in 1925 the new navigation was in fact included in the examinations, or whether they were still working on the old lines?

Mr. WILLIAMS

I am afraid I have not seen the full conditions of the examinations, but I shall be pleased to send my hon. Friend full particulars if he so desires.