§ 81. Mr. SANDHAMasked the President of the Board of Trade if he has yet considered the Report of the Committee on the road line of ships; whether it contains any recommendations for the raising of the load line; and, if so, whether, in view of the serious loss of life at sea, he will obtain the views of some seamen and firemen before reaching a final decision on the Report?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. W. R. Smith)The Report of the Committee on the load lines of merchant ships is under consideration, and it is proposed to consider the whole question at an international conference in the near future. As regards the second part of the question, I would explain that while some recommendations would result in raising of the load lines on certain ships, new conditions as to loading and equipment are suggested with a view to securing increased safety at sea. Any proposal to alter the existing Regulations will, in accordance with the usual pro- 465 cedure, be submitted to the Merchant Shipping Advisory Committee, on which seamen and firemen are represented.
§ Mr. SANDHAMIs it the fact that the Trade Union Congress General Council have very decided views on this matter as well, and will they be consulted?