HC Deb 15 April 1986 vol 95 cc325-7W
Mr. Colvin

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what is his estimate of the proper number of pilots required in the Southampton and Isle of Wight district.

Mr. Ridley

It is not for me to make such estimates. The most recent returns available for the Pilotage commission show a "proper or agreed number" of 56.46 on 31 December 1984 for the Isle of Wight pilotage district, which includes Southampton.

Mr. Colvin

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what is his estimate of the proper number of pilots required in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Ridley

The number of pilots required is at present a matter for the pilotage authorities. Following the proposed reorganisation of pilotage, the numbers required will be for the harbour authorities to decide in the light of decisions on future pilotage requirements. It is not for me to make estimates of commercial demand.

Mr. Colvin

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has for the publication of a White Paper on marine pilotage.

Mr. Ridley

It is too early to say whether there should be a White Paper before I bring forward new legislative proposals.