§ Mr. Evennettasked the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received in response to the consultative document, "Marine Pilotage"; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellOver 300 organisations and individuals have commented on the consultative document. The proposal to transfer pilotage responsibilities to the ports has been welcomed by almost all parties except the pilots. The latter have expressed concern about various matters, including naturally the terms of compensation for pilots who would be made surplus and the basis on which those who would remain would be employed.
I shall consider very carefully all the comments which have been made before deciding how to carry matters forward and what proposals to bring before Parliament.