HC Deb 25 January 1988 vol 126 c24W
Mr. David Martin

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will now announce the appointed day under the Pilotage Act 1987.

Mr. David Mitchell

My right hon. Friend will announce the appointed day as soon as possible; it seems certain to be in the second half of this year. In setting a date it is necessary to take account of progress made with the preparation of schemes for the winding-up of the existing pilotage authorities, as well as to the need to avoid delay to the implementation of the Act.