§ 40. Sir H. Roperasked the Minister of Transport what response he has received from the Governments approached with 641 regard to the ratification of the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organisation Convention; and what steps are being taken to secure further acceptances.
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Mr. Gurney Braithwaite)Replies have not yet been received from all the 47 Governments which Her Majesty's representatives overseas have urged to accept the Convention, but most of those so far received indicate that the question is under consideration. We are not unhopeful that, before long, further acceptances may be forthcoming, but in many countries legislation would be necessary. Her Majesty's Government are continuing their representations and supporting the efforts made by United Nations bodies to bring the Convention into force.
§ Sir H. RoperIn view of the importance of international agreement to stop oil pollution at our holiday resorts, and the complete absence of any progress in getting support for this particular Convention, will my hon. Friend consider an alternative method of securing an international agreement?
Mr. BraithwaiteEleven States have already accepted the Convention and the replies from the other Governments were given in confidence; some of them refer to legislation which will be necessary.