§ Sir W. Smilesasked the Minister of Transport if, in view of the fact that fishing boats are not under Board of Trade rules when they carry less than 12 passengers, he will, during August, allow this limited number of passengers to be carried by fishing boats between Donaghadee and Portpatrick, provided they have a valid passport and report to the police station in Donaghadee and Portpatrick on arrival.
§ Mr. BarnesAlthough vessels are not required to have passenger certificates unless they are mechanically propelled and carry more than 12 passengers, all sea-going vessels are subject to statutory safety Regulations. There would be no objection to fishing boats carrying up to 12 passengers between Donaghadee and Portpatrick provided that the vessels have been surveyed and found to comply with the appropriate safety requirements. Owners should consult the nearest Marine Survey Office of the Ministry, where they can obtain full information about those requirements.