HC Deb 26 October 1987 vol 121 cc54-5W
Dr. Godman

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he intends to introduce legislation on, and a nationality test for, the beneficial ownership of fishing vessels in the United Kingdom and dependencies as recommended by the working party which reported to him in the autumn of 1986.

Mr. David Mitchell

I refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to my hon. Friends the Members for Cornwall, North (Mr. Neale) and for St. Ives (Mr. Harris) on 24 July.

Dr. Godman

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has any plans to amend the regulations relating to safety matters on the carrying of immersion suits on United Kingdom-registered fishing vessels; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

My Department plan to introduce shortly regulations to implement specific provisions for the carriage of safety equipment on fishing vessels prescribed in the Safety at Sea Act 1986. In addition requirements for safety equipment generally on fishing vessels including immersion suits amongst other items is under examination by the Department in consultation with the fishing industry as part of a review of the Fishing Vessel (Safety Provisions) Rules 1975.

Dr. Godman

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has any plans to change the Fishing Vessel (Safety Provisions) Rules 1975; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

My Department is reviewing the Fishing Vessel (Safety Provisions) Rules 1975 in consultation with the fishing industry.

Dr. Godman

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions his Department has had with the representatives of the owners of United Kingdom and registered fishing vessels regarding the problem of noise levels of fishing vessel engines.

Mr. David Mitchell

No recent discussions have taken place with the fishing industry on the problem of noise.