HC Deb 07 November 1996 vol 284 cc603-4W
Mr. Barry Field

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what advice he has issued to commercial and pleasure craft in respect of the phasing out of the VHF radio service. [2569]

Mr. Bowis

I have asked the chief executive of Marine Safety Agency to write to my hon. Friend.

Letter from R. M. Bradley to Mr. Barry Field, dated 7 November 1996: The Secretary of State for Transport has asked me to reply to your Question about the advice which has been issued to commercial and pleasure craft in respect of the phasing out of VHF radio services. There are no plans to phase out the use of Channel 16 in the UK in the foreseeable future. The UK is however keen to promote the voluntary adoption by non-SOLAS vessels of Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems (GMDSS) principles and the use of automated distress calling. Further information on what is involved is contained in a Marine Safety Agency (MSA) leaflet entitled GMDSS: Radio of the Next Century which has been available for some time. The MSA is also active in promoting the positive benefits of GMDSS at boat shows and other similar commercial events around the country.

Mr. Field

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he has had with commercial fishermen about phasing out VHF radio services. [2574]

Mr. Bowis

I have asked the chief executive of Marine Safety Agency to write to my hon. Friend.

Letter from R. M. Bradley to Mr. Barry Field, dated 7 November 1996: The Secretary of State for Transport has asked me to reply to your Question on the discussions that have taken place with commercial fishermen about phasing out VHF radio services. The fishermen's organisations are aware that the UK is committed to the continued use of Channel 16. HM Coastguard will maintain a listening watch on Channel 16 for as long as necessary after 1 February 1999 and all SOLAS Convention ships in the UK Search and Rescue Area are encouraged to continue to maintain watch on Channel 16 where possible for as long as necessary. Internationally, the UK in conjunction with other European administrations, will seek agreement at the next World Radio Conference in 1997 to Channel 16 remaining a calling frequency for non-SOLAS vessels.