§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Transport what is the frequency with which checks on all safety equipment are carried out on cross Channel ferries; who is responsible for these checks; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerSafety equipment on United Kingdom registered cross channel ferries is surveyed annually by marine surveyors from my Department. If they have reason to go on board between these times in the course of their duties, for example, to survey part of the vessel's machinery, they may also conduct a general inspection of the ship. The survey of safety equipment of foreign flag cross channel ferries is a matter for the flag state.