HL Deb 07 March 1987 vol 487 c295

16 Clause 8, page 8, line 34, leave out subsection (3) and insert—

"(3) If the Secretary of State is satisfied, on application by a competent harbour authority, that it is appropriate to do so by reason of the unusual hazards involved in shipping movements within its harbour, he may direct that during such period (not exceeding three years) as he may specify, notwithstanding that the authority is satisfied as mentioned in subsection (1) above, it may refuse to grant pilotage exemption certificates under that subsection.".

Lord Brabazon of Tara

My Lords, I beg to move that this House do agree with the Commons in their Amendment No. 16. Under Clause 8(3), a CHA may be relieved of the normal obligation to issue pilotage exemption certificates if it can persuade the Secretary of State that there are unusual hazards in the harbour which warrant this. The Secretary of State would expect to issue directions under this subsection only rarely. This amendment makes it clear that, where the Secretary of State issues such a direction, the CHA will still be able to issue certificates if it is satisfied under the criteria in Clause 8(1) as to the master's capability, but it will not be obliged to do so. I beg to move.

Moved, That this House do agree with the Commons in the said amendment.—(Lord Brabazon of Tara.)

On Question, Motion agreed to.