(i) If wide spread use of dispensations was made,
then we could be inundated with applications from shipping companies, and the standard of their nominees would doubtless vary considerably. All candidates would need to be examined, but it is not felt that the percentage "pass" would be very high. Such an approach to the problem is considered retrograde at this particular stage.
The acceptance of certificates of competency at certain levels where these are issued by other maritime administrations would not post any problems, and in fact matters under consideration, are associated with the possibility of accepting all such certificates with the exception of Masters.
(ii) Neither of the changes specified would, on their
own account attract companies to register their ships in Hong Kong.
(iii) Yes.
Question 9
(a) Advantages
(1) Increased revenue for the Colony.
(ii) Possibly an increased number of posts for local
seamen, bearing in mind the efforts of I.T.F. to discriminate against flags of convenience.
(iii) Improved status for the Colony from a marine point
of view, where in a general sense such status is reflected in the amount of tonnage on the shipping register.
(iv) Approval of prototype items of safety equipment
and other materials utilised in ship construction, would rest solely with Director of Marine.
(b) Disadvantages
Immediately our survey facilities would be fully
/extended