HC Deb 19 January 1981 vol 997 c9W
23. Mr. Viggers

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he regards recent changes away from the British flag by merchant fleets as significant; and whether he proposes to take any action to discourage further transfers.

Mr. Eyre

The sharp drop since 1975 in merchant shipping tonnage registered in the United Kingdon has for the moment eased. This decline was due to ship disposals and not to re-registration overseas. The future size of our merchant fleet and its job opportunities depend primarily on its operating costs, including its labour costs, being internationally competitive.