HL Deb 03 May 1955 vol 192 cc701-2

After Cause 18, insert the following new clause—

Annal report

(". The Minister shall, as soon as possible after the end of each calendar year, make a report on the exercise and performance of his functions under this Act during that year, which shall include such observations as he may think fit to make on the operation during that year of this Act, of the Convention of 1954 and of any subsequent Convention, and he shall lay a copy of every such report before each House of Parliament.")

THE EARL OF SELKIRK

My Lords, this is a new clause which requires the Minister to make an annual report of the progress made under this Bill. I suppose it is true to say that there seems to be no end to the making of reports, but none the less this is one way of giving Parliament an opportunity of seeing from a practical point of view what progress has been made in this important subject. In moving this Amendment perhaps I might say one thing. It is rather less than twelve months since the International Conference in London finished its work, so I think we have lost very little time in putting into effect the conclusions of that Conference. In doing so we have given a lead to the whole world in this sphere, and I think I am correct in saying that the action taken by Parliament in this country has been widely reported in many other parts of the world.

I can tell your Lordships that as soon as the Royal Assent is signified to this Bill it is the intention of Her Majesty's Government to accept the International Convention. It will not come fully into force, however, until nine other countries, of which four must have tanker tonnage of at least 500,000 tons, have also accepted the obligations of this Convention. As I said, on the Second Reading, twenty countries have already signed the Convention, subject to acceptance, and we look forward eagerly to seeing the extent to which they are able to accept their obligations. I am sure the House is very glad that it is possible for this measure, upon which we are all agreed, to be passed in this foreshortened Parliament. I beg to move that this House doth agree with the Commons in this Amendment.

Moved, That this House doth agree with the Commons in the said Amendment.—(The Earl of Selkirk.)

On Question, Motion agreed to.