§ 24 and 25. Mr. McNamaraasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what regulation issued by his Department concerning load lines covers vessels using the River Humber; and what are the limits placed upon them;
(2) if he will introduce regulations to ensure that all river craft using the River Humber between the Apex Light and the mouth comply with Board of Trade rules concerning load lines.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantAs I informed the hon. Member on 2nd March, the provisions of the Merchant Shipping (Load Lines) Act, 1967, and of the rules made there under apply only to vessels which go to sea. With regard to the River Humber, this means in summer to seaward of a line drawn from Patrington Church to Cleethorpes Pier and in winter of a line from Paull to New Holland. There is no proposal at present to change these limits.—[Vol. 832, c.172–3.]