§ Mr. Spearingasked the Secretary of State for Trade when the Rochdale Committee recommended that certificates of competency should be introduced for the masters of home trade cargo ships, including vessels dredging for aggregates in the Thames Estuary; and when he expects to introduce and implement the appropriate regulations.
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§ Mr. Clinton DavisThe Rochdale Committee reported in May 1970. Proposals to implement the recommendations on the certification of masters of home trade ships, including, where appropriate, those dredging for aggregates, have been under discussion with both sides of the industry, and I expect regulations to be made during the first half of next year. The regulations will provide for a transitional period to allow newcomers to obtain the necessary certificates.