§ Sir Bernard Braineasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps are being taken to ensure that, in the interests of safe navigation, all ships entering the Thames Estuary are fitted with VHF equipment; and what powers exist to prevent ships not so equipped from entering these waters.
§ Mr. OnslowThe Port of London Authority is consulting urgently with Trinity House and the Chamber of Shipping as it is required to do before issuing a general direction to vessels in the Thames regarding the carriage of VHF equipment. Once such a direction is made the authority will be able to prevent entry of any vessel not fitted with VHF in times of poor visibility or if it is likely to be a danger to other vessels.