Ref: M.D. 32/71c
MARINE
file
DEPARTMENT,
102, CONNAUGHT ROAD, CENTRAL,
HONG KONG,
7th April, 1973.
J.N. Archer, Esq.,
Department of Trade & Industry, Shipping Policy Division,
The Adelphi, John Adam Street, LONDON, W.C.2
Dear
John,
INCK21/2
re: Hong Kong Shipping Register
By now you will have been advised of the meetings we had in Hong Kong, with Mr. Heseltine on 23rd and 24th March. Notes of the discussions were prepared, and I am assuming you are in possession of these.
The position attained is that we have agreed to forward written comments on the Draft Consultative Document produced at our London meetings, and various other aspects which were mooted, albeit tentatively, during the discussions in Hong Kong.
I have already distributed further documentation to our shipowners, and intend calling a meeting towards the end of next month, the intervening pericd being required to ensure full preparation. It is anticipated therefore that the written comments referred to above, will be available in early June. Considering the time factor, it is not felt any time is being wasted, rather am I concerned with a meaningful document being prepared on the subject, following full and detailed study. at this end.
We saw the feature item in Lloyd's List recently quoting inter alia Slater's comments, on a separate Hong Kong Register, and I wonder what stage you have reached in your discussion with both sides of the shipping industry.
Yours sincerely,
Allan Petalee
(A. Fletcher) Director of Marine.