§ 42. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Transport if the requisite number of nations have now signed the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, which was drawn up at the conference in London in 1948; and when it will come into operation.
§ Mr. BarnesNo, Sir. The Convention comes into force 12 months after it has been accepted by 15 countries, seven of which have each not less than one million gross tons of shipping. So far, acceptances have been deposited by the United Kingdom, the United States of America and France. I am not in a position to say when the Convention will come into operation.
§ Mr. AwberyHow many signatures are necessary to bring this Convention into operation; and what is being done to persuade those nations that have not signed to sign so that it can come into operation on 1st January next, as anticipated?
§ Mr. BarnesI have already said, 15 countries, seven of which have each not less than one million gross tons of shipping. I cannot exercise influence on other countries to adopt this course.
§ Mr. EdenSurely it would be possible for the Foreign Office to push around a bit and try to encourage other countries to come into line with ourselves?
§ Mr. BarnesEncouragement is taking place at present. We are endeavouring to influence other countries.