§ Sir Julian Ridsdaleasked the Secretary of State for Transport what estimate he has made of savings to be achieved from his Department's proposals on the reorganisation of pilotage, showing the savings to be derived from each of the main proposals.
§ Mr. MooreI expect the proposed transfer of responsibility for pilotage to the harbour authorities to lead to the more efficient use of pilots, the removal of compulsory pilotage where it is not needed on safety grounds, and economies in administration and operation as a result of the integration of pilotage with other port services. The savings that are achieved will depend on decisions made by the harbour authorities in the light of local circumstances, but there is widespread agreement that very substantial reductions in the number of pilots required can he achieved, with accompanying important savings in cost.