§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received in the plans he announced on 15 December to assist the British shipping industry; and what plans he has(a) to publish the results of his consultation on proposals to allow non-United Kingdom officers to serve on British ships and (b) to increase the financial help available to British junior officers studying for higher certificates of competency.
§ Mr. Norris[holding answer 26 April 1994]: We have received a few letters about my right hon. Friend's announcement of 15 December, mostly about the proposals to allow a greater use of non-United Kingdom officers on United Kingdom registered ships. Consultation on these proposals will be completed by the end of May. Individual comments will subsequently be available for inspection in the Department unless the respondent requests otherwise.
My right hon. Friend's announcement on 15 December last explained that assistance will be available for a pilot scheme lasting three years for junior officers studying for a second certificate of competency. A total of £1.5 million is available for this scheme in the first year, 1994–95.