§ 4. Captain ERSKINE-BOLSTasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will consider the introduction of legislation for the better regulation of passenger-carrying speed boats at the sea side resorts of the country?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANLocal authorities already have certain powers under the Public Health Acts as regards boats which ply for hire, and the Board of Trade have powers to deal with the safety of steam and motor boats which carry more than 12 passengers. So far as I am aware, there has been no general request from local authorities for further powers as regards speed boats carrying passengers, but, if such general representations were made, I should be pre pared to consider the matter in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health.
§ Captain ERSKINE-BOLSTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is very grave dissatisfaction among the public, who feel that there is a danger of inadequate inspection of boats carrying fewer than 12 people?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANSome representations have been made to me, and I am in communication with one or two authorities. I believe that some of them have already taken powers under their own private Acts.
§ Mr. WALLHEADHas the right hon. Gentleman powers, over and above those held by local authorities, as to safety regulations?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI do not think we have, except in regard to boats which carry 12 passengers or more.