HC Deb 27 April 1909 vol 4 cc308-9W
Mr. BRAMSDON

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether watermen's wherries, authorised to work, ply, and row within and without the harbour of Portsmouth, could be constructed to be driven by motor power, under the Acts of 49 and 52 George III., and be licensed and controlled by the Ferry Commissioners; or whether every boat driven by motor power comes within the authority of the Board of Trade and requires to be licensed by them?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Under the provisions of sections 271 and 743 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894, every vessel propelled by mechanical power which carries more than 12 passengers must be surveyed and certificated by the Board of Trade. This requirement applies irrespective of local regulations as to licenses.