Port of London Authority

HC Deb 21 July 1997 vol 298 cc423-4W

Mr. Wyatt

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what piloting experience on the River Thames the Chief Harbour Master of the Port of London authority possesses. [9293]

Ms Glenda Jackson

The Chief Harbour Master of the Port of London authority is appointed by the board and his qualifications and experience are a matter for them. The Port of London Act 1968 requires that one member of the board appointed by the Secretary of Stateshall be a person with wide experience of navigation (including the command of sea-going ships, pilotage and navigational aids)". This position is currently filled by a former deputy master and chairman of Trinity House.

Mr. Wyatt

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the safety implications of reductions in the number of pilots in service in the Port of London authority. [9292]

Ms Jackson

I refer to the reply I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Gravesham (Mr. Pond), on 1 July,Official Report, column 102.