§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he has now taken to reduce the waiting period for the issue of ship wireless licences; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ButcherSince my right hon. Friend's reply of 7 June, it has been reduced from five to six weeks to about a month and I hope to see a further improvement. The issuing of ship call signs has now been transferred to my Department from the Department of Transport, and this rationalisation has helped to reduce the overall waiting time.