§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the maximum permissable wind force for merchant ships to set sail when(a) unladen, (b) laden and (c) laden with livestock.
§ Mr. NorrisThis is an operational matter for the Marine Safety Agency. I have asked the chief executive to write to the hon. Member.
Letter from R. M. Bradley to Mr. Elliot Morley, dated 21 February 1995:
The Secretary of State for Transport has asked me to reply to your Question about maximum permissable wind forces for merchant ships.Ships on international voyages are designed generally to operate in all weather conditions and their construction is approved on that basis. The decision to set sail is a matter for the professional judgement of a ship's Master, taking account of the weather and other factors, including the safety of the ship's crew and cargo.