HC Deb 08 November 1976 vol 919 cc32-3W
Mr. Ovenden

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what representations he has received from pilots' organisations concerning the proposal in the document "Proposed Merchant Shipping Bill—Outline of Main Provisions on Pilotage" to permit the issue of pilotage certificates to foreign nationals; and what replies he has sent.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The marine pilotage branch of the Transport and General Workers Union has suggested that pilotage certificates should only be available to EEC nationals on the basis of similar non-discriminatory treatment in their own country. The United Kingdom Pilots' Association has opposed the issuing of pilotage certificates to foreign nationals. My officials are discussing these questions with representatives of the shipowners and the pilots' organisations.

Mr. Ovenden

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what representations he has received from pilots' organisations concerning the proposal in the document "Proposed Merchant Shipping Bill—Outline of Main Provisions on Pilotage" to fill the places on the Central Pilotage Board by ministerial appointment; and what replies he has sent.

Mr. Clinton Davis

The United Kingdom Pilots' Association has submitted that half the places on the board should be held by elected pilot representatives. The association has been advised that the Steering Committee on Pilotage recommended that the board should be appointed by the Secretary of State to ensure the correct balance of experience and geographical representation but that full consultations with interested parties would precede the establishment of the board. Talks with the UKPA are continuing.

Location Direct from Complainant Via Honourable Members Via Other Agencies
1ST JULY 1975–31ST JULY 1976
Teddington 72 30 5
Twickenham (including Strawberry Hill) 10 21 2
Whitton 2 8
Hampton 2
Hampton Hill
Hampton Wick (including Hampton Court Park) 1
Outside Twickenham constituency 44 15 8
1ST AUGUST 1976–5TH NOVEMBER 1976
Teddington 96 65 3
Twickenham (including Strawberry Hill) 34 49 1
Whitton 5 13 1
Hampton 5 1
Hampton Hill 1 3
Hampton Wick (including Hampton Court Park) 3
Outside Twickenham constituency 21 2 2