HC Deb 21 March 1945 vol 409 cc831-2W
Dr. Morģan

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has any official information to give as to the cause of the disappearance of the vessel "Island Queen," on a pleasure trip between the colony of Grenada and neighbouring islands.

Colonel Stanley

The Commission appointed to inquire into the disappearance of the vessel reported that there was no direct evidence to determine the cause, but that it might have foundered consequent on capsizing in a squall. I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the Commissioners' Report.

Dr. Morģan

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the disappearance without trace of the vessel "Island Queen," on an inter-island pleasure voyage in calm seas in the West Indies, he is satisfied through the local governments with the conditions, registration, examination as to seaworthiness, seamanship, proficiency tests, etc., governing the use of similar vessels for inter-colonial traffic in these Colonies; and if he proposes to insist on more stringent regulations.

Colonel Stanley

The Commission of Inquiry into the loss of the vessel expressed the opinion that the Grenada Shipping Rules had not been fully enforced, and recommended a number of amendments of those Rules. I should not propose to intervene unless the Colonial Government refused, without good reason, to act on this recommendation which, when the Governor last reported, they were considering.