HC Deb 07 November 1973 vol 863 cc986-7
11. Mr. Bryant Godman Irvine

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps are being taken to replace the ss "Taraka" or to enable the Gilbert and Ellice Island Colony to replace the money which she was receiving from the seamen working for foreign shipping lines.

Lord Balniel

The motor vessel "Ninikoria" was brought into immediate use as a training ship to replace ss "Teraka", and there has been no interruption in the seamen's training.

Mr. Godman Irvine

As the seamen trained in ss "Taraka" have made such a significant contribution to the economy of the colony, will my "Ninikoria" be able to train the same number to a similar standard?

Lord Balniel

The number of cadets trained on the "Ninikoria" will be fewer than on the "Teraka". On the other hand, the training facilities are improved, as the cadets will be trained under seagoing conditions instead of under the static conditions of the old ship.

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