§ Sir Peter Millsasked the Secretary of State for Transport if Her Majesty's Government will take further steps to halt the decline in the British Merchant Navy.
§ Mr. David MitchellI am concerned at the decline in the merchant fleet, but do not propose to protect or subsidise it. Both sides of the industry must work together to improve its competitiveness.
In international shipping negotiations I will continue to work for the widest possible access for British shipping to world trades. I will continue to minimise the burden of regulation, consistent with safety, and to take action against unsafe foreign shipping in British ports.