§ 63. Mr. Wingfield Digbyasked the Minister of Transport if he will take steps to make the registration of small boats compulsory, in view of the increase in the number of privately-owned small craft, particularly power boats, and the consequent danger to bathers and other boatmen; and what representations he has received on the subject from the Docks and Harbours Authorities Association.
§ Mr. MarplesNo, I should prefer that the harbour and other local authorities concerned should decide what measures of control of small craft they wish to exercise. I received representations on this matter from the Dock and Harbour Authorities' Association in June 1961, when I explained that I did not consider that a central registration scheme was called for but I was ready to consider further evidence on the matter.