HC Deb 17 July 1973 vol 860 c84W
Mr. Harold Walker

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will introduce legislation to prevent ships leaving United Kingdom ports on board which there has been an accident or breach of safety regulations while the vessel is berthed until it receives clearance from a factory inspector.

Mr. Dudley Smith

No. Action to correct a breach of safety regulations is initiated by the factory inspector on the spot. Where it is decided to prosecute arrangements can usually be made for a court hearing before the ship leaves port.