§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if, in view of incorrect information supplied to owners of fishing vessels on the application forms for transfer to the new registry of fishing vessels, he plans to adhere to the closing date for the transitional period of 31 March; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PortilloKnown ownership details have been sent to owners of all United Kingdom registered fishing vessels. They have been asked to verify or correct the information and return the form together with a signed declaration of British character to the registry of shipping and seamen. To date, only some 5,000 out of 13,000 sent out have been returned and it is to be hoped that owners will respond quickly. The transitional period ends on 31 March 1989, the date prescribed in regulations.