§ Mr. Ovendenasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he contemplates any change in the present provisions relating to the return and relief of seamen left behind or shipwrecked.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisYes: I have now approved new regulations, to come into force on 1 March 1979, which will remedy a number of serious deficiencies in the Merchant Shipping (Repatriation) Regulations 1972. In particular, the uncertainty which existed as regards the position of the seamen left behind in hospital in gaol or otherwise incommunicado will be removed; a more precise definition of "relief and maintenance" will be provided with special reference to the cost, in certain circumstances, of defending a seaman on a criminal charge; and the provisions relating to the wages and accounts of seamen left behind will be simplified.