HC Deb 27 May 1965 vol 713 cc106-7W
32. Commander Pursey

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will introduce legislation to give himself power to appoint a court of inquiry to investigate the control of small pleasure craft on hire to members of the public and to investigate accidents to such craft at sea.

Mr. Darling

No. Powers are already available to the Board of Trade and to local authorities to control small pleasure craft in certain respects. The Merchant Shipping Acts contain wide powers to investigate accidents to ships. My right hon. Friend has no evidence to suggest that there is a present need to extend any of these powers.