§ 40. Mr. Wall asked the President of the Board of Trade what regulations he is proposing to introduce for the licensing of pleasure boats plying for hire and for privately-owned boats and yachts.
§ The Minister of State, Board of Trade (Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu)None. All pleasure craft carrying over 12 passengers require a Board of Trade certificate and those plying for hire with lesser numbers can be most effectively controlled under local licensing powers. I do not consider that comprehensive regulations for licensing small craft used privately for pleasure would be justified at present.
§ Mr. WallIs the hon. Gentleman aware that that Answer will give great pleasure to the yachting fraternity which often goes to sea to get away from bureaucracy on the land?
§ Mr. McNamaraCan my hon. Friend say what extra measures he has taken to ensure that the regulations at present in force are enforced by regular inspection?
§ Mr. MallalieuWe have already called the attention of the local authorities to their powers and we propose to bring forward legislation which will increase the penalties for infringement.