Fishing Vessels (Safety)

HC Deb 13 October 1975 vol 897 cc621-2W

Mr. Channon

asked the Secretary of State for Trade (1) what representations he has received from fishermen about the costs of the new survey fees required under the fishing vessels safety regulations;

(2) if he is satisfied that the survey fees for small inshore fishing vessels are priced at the lowest possible amount, compatible with the need to avoid public subsidy.

Mr. Deakins

It has been represented that the fees are excessive and will add unnecessarily to operating costs at a time when the industry, particularly the inshore fishermen, can least afford additional expense. The fees have, however, been carefully calculated to take account of the estimated time of surveyors and the overheads involved, and are designed to cover the full cost. They will be left under review and revised as necessary in the light of experience and to reflect cost changes.

Mr. Channon

asked the Secretary of State for Trade (1) why it is necessary for the new safety regulations for fishing vessels to apply to the inshore fishing fleet;

(2) if, in view of the financial problems of the fishing industry, he will defer the implementation of the new safety regulations for fishing vessels.

Mr. Deakins

Bearing in mind the risks involved to men employed in the fishing industry and the six years phasing-in period for surveys, my right hon. Friend is convinced that implementation of the safety rules and surveys should not be deferred. They apply to all fishing vessels above 12 metres (about 40 ft). It would be unjustifiable to exclude such vessels in the inshore fleet which may spend several days at sea, often in severe weather conditions.

Mr. Channon

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what consultations he had with the owners of small vessels before bringing in the new safety regulations for small boats.

Mr. Deakins

I assume that the reference to "small boats" is to small fishing vessels. Representative organisations were consulted extensively at all stages regarding the new safety rules and surveys. These consultations and subsequent explanatory talks extended to owners of smaller vessels.