§ Mr. Brian WilsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the safety implications of the global maritime distress and safety system and the effect on safety of the withdrawal of radio officers from passenger ferries.
§ Mr. McLoughlinThe global maritime distress and safety system is an internationally agreed system that will use the latest technology, including satellite communications, to enhance distress communications. It will introduce a quicker and more accurate response to distress calls without necessarily requiring a radio officer.