HC Deb 14 December 1982 vol 34 cc67-8W
Mr. Myles

asked the Minister for Trade if he is satisfied with progress in bringing the United Kingdom fishing fleet up to the standards required by the Fishing Vessels (Safety Provisions) Rules 1975; and what further steps he is taking to improve the position.

Mr. Sproat

Considerable progress has been made since the statutory survey and certification of fishing vessels of 12 metres in length and over were introduced in 1975, but it is not enough. In the seven years since the first group of vessels became due for survey, less than half the 2,200 vessels required to be surveyed have in fact been brought up to the statutory standard and obtained a fishing vessel certificate.

Over this period the Department, in close co-operation with the industry through the fishing industry safety group, has operated a flexible policy of implementation in order to ease the burden on owners in bringing their vessels up to standard and has not generally resorted to its enforcement powers. This can no longer continue.

With my approval and the agreement of the fishing industry safety group, the Department is introducing a phased programme of enforcement. As from 1 January 1983 vessels of 12 metres in length and above entering the United Kingdom fishing boat register, whether newly constructed or transferring from another register, will be liable to be detained if they have not been surveyed and certificated in accordance with the safety rules. As from 1 February 1983 vessels already on the register which have not been brought forward for survey and the appropriate survey fee paid will be liable to detention. As from 1 October 1983 any vessels without certificates will de liable to be detained unless they have obtained a temporary exemption by satisfying the Department's fishing vessel surveyors that at least the life-saving appliances, fire appliances and stability meet the requirements of the rules.

Sea fishing is the most hazardous of occupations and the Department's priority in this area is to ensure the thorough survey of all vessels of 12 metres in length and above and subsequently to bring them up to the standards of the 1975 rules. In the interests of the safety of fishermen and fishing vessels, I urge all owners and skippers to complete the surveys and obtain a certificate without further delay.