HC Deb 27 March 1950 vol 473 c30
63. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Transport how many men sat in 1949 for their master's or mate's certificate under the Merchant Shipping Act; how many were successful; and if he is satisfied with the standard set in this examination.

Mr. Barnes

Two thousand five hundred and fifty-eight men sat for a master's or mate's certificate in 1949 and 1,925 certificates were issued in that year. I am fully satisfied with the standard set in the examinations.

Mr. Awbery

In view of the fact that these men go through an intensive course of training before they sit for this examination, and that 25 per cent. of them fail after this course, would my right hon. Friend consider whether the standard is too high for this examination?

Mr. Barnes

The syllabus is agreed with both sides of the industry, and I am not aware of any representations that express the dissatisfaction to which my hon. Friend has just referred.