§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he proposes to seek power to require (a) British ships to comply with standards laid down by international conventions and (b) those vessels which fail to comply to be withdrawn from service; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. David MitchellAll ships registered in the United Kingdom and in any dependent territory to which international conventions have been extended are required to comply with the standards laid down in these conventions. Ships which do not comply are subject to penalties, including detention until serious deficiencies have been rectified. I am considering further legislation to extend and improve the enforcement of safety requirements in dependent territories. I also attach particular importance to the inspection of foreign ships visiting our ports to ensure that they do not escape the rigorous safety requirements imposed on our own ships. If my hon. Friend has reason to believe there are British ships operating which do not comply I would be glad to receive details.