CONFIDENTIAL
20/21
zdelil
as between the systems applied in different countries.
Within the Commonwealth, with standards and examination
arrangements modelled closely on the UK pattern, a system
has developed in which there is reciprocal recognition
and acceptance of the certificates of competency issued
by member countries. It has not so far proved possible
to obtain agreement on a system of internationally acceptable
standards. The whole trend at present, in the light of
the spate of strandings and collisions in the English
Channel and elsewhere, is to look more closely at the
systems applied by the flag States whose ships have been
involved. To sum up, changes will come but not in the
short term.
(c) A Nationality Requirement in Hong Kong different
from that applied to UK Registered Ships?
It appears that the Hong Kong legislature could
repeal in respect of ships registered in Hong Kong the
current requirements applicable by virtue of Section 91
of the Merchant Shipping Act 1894. To do this they
would presumably act under the powers provided under
Section 735(1) of that Act. But this would require
confirmation by Order in Council and extensive
consultation would be required before such action could
be taken.
(a) Tonnage Measurement and Crew Accommodation.
The crew accommodation has to comply with the
Merchant Shipping (Crew Accommodation) Regulations 1953
as amended.
The application of these requirements as
set out in the Director of Marine's letter to Mr Pao is
generally acceptable to the DTI.
3. CONFIDENTIAL
/(e)