§ 86. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he is aware of the adverse effect upon our shipping, and particularly upon the international standards of safety and crew accommodation and conditions, of the unregulated operation of tax-free ships flying flags of convenience, many of which have no genuine link with the countries of registration; and what steps are being taken to deal with this nationally and internationally.
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§ Mr. WatkinsonI am certainly aware that the rapid increase of the size of these fleets is a serious matter for our shipping, and the problem is being closely studied by the Government. In regard to the second part of the Question, the Government's action in increasing the investment allowance for United Kingdom shipping has already reduced the advantages which these fleets have over our own. Internationally, the problem as a whole is being examined by the O.E.E.C., and particular aspects are likely to be considered at the Conference on the Law of the Sea, and at the meeting of the International Labour Office to be held next Spring.