HC Deb 13 May 1930 vol 238 cc1631-2
64. Sir B. PETO

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the fact that neither the master nor the navigating officer in charge of the British steamer "Seaforth," which was sunk after collision with the Spanish steamer "Cristina" on the 12th July last, held certificates of competency, whereas under Spanish law officers in charge of a watch must hold certificates of competency, he will consider the introduction of legislation to provide that officers of British merchant ships are in all cases required to hold a certificate of competency if in charge of a watch?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

This is one of the questions which will have to be reviewed when general legislation to amend the Merchant Shipping Act is under consideration.

Sir B. PETO

Can the President of the Board of Trade say when the Bill will be introduced?

Mr. GRAHAM

We are always reviewing these matters in the Department, but of course it will be quite impossible for me to indicate any date on which I could promise a Bill.