HC Deb 30 April 1969 vol 782 c1437
36. Mr. Costain

asked the President of the Board of Trade why he has not issued a notice incorporating I.S.O. Recommendation R.799/68 on the safety of bulwark ladders and stanchion combinations.

Mr. William Rodgers

Because the I.S.O. Recommendation does not provide the degree of latitude contained in the Pilot Ladder Rules, 1965 which is essential having regard to the many different designs and shapes of vessels on which pilot ladders are used.

Mr. Costain

Does the Minister appreciate that I asked his right hon. Friend about the matter following the death of a pilot and we were led to believe that these regulations would be implemented? Since then eight months have passed and there have been other serious accidents. What is the hon. Gentleman to say to pilots, who are perfectly entitled not to board ships under these conditions? Does he want them to go on strike?

Mr. Rodgers

These are very difficult problems involving technical considerations. I know of the hon. Member's deep concern, which we share. There are still differences of opinion among the interested parties. We are having discussions, and I hope, like the hon. Member, that these differences will be resolved very shortly.

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