§ Mr. Prescottasked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will give statutory force to his recommended system of reporting-in has been in use for less than vessels.
§ Mr. TebbitThe voluntary scheme of reporting-in has been in use for less than 461W a year. In the light of experience, and after careful consultation with the fishing industry, I do not propose to introduce a statutory position reporting scheme for fishing vessels.
§ Mr. Prescottasked the Secretary of State for Trade when his Department first recommended that fishing vessels adopt a daily reporting-in system; how effective it is; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TebbitThe open line radio channel for exclusive use by fishing vessels, which was introduced by my Department on 1 April 1979 at the request of the industry, provides a listening watch through Post Office coast radio stations on 2381 kHz between 17.00 hours and 09.00 hours. The open line enables fishing vessels operating beyond VHF range to communicate rapidly with shore and to maintain regular contact especially when difficulties develop or in extreme weather conditions.
Increasing numbers of fishing vessels are using the open line and continuing efforts will be made by my Department to encourage fishermen to take advantage of this safety facility. The Fishing Industry Safety Group proposes to review the effectiveness of the scheme after one year of operation.