ships,
especially those
subject to unilateral
carrying harmful substances, would be
intervention and inspection in the ports
include accepted Annex III.
of
parties
which have
These
virtually all of our
principal
maritime trading partners.
Non-acceptance
of Annex
III
could lead, therefore, to
unnecessary delays to Hong Kong
registered ships in foreign.
ports, with significant financial consequences for their owners.
7.
Should Annex III not be extended to Hong Kong, the
Hong Kong as a port committed to the protection of the
environment from pollution would be adversely affected.
image of
marine
It
would also tend to undermine the Hong Kong Shipping Register,
our policy in respect of which is to adhere to all relevant
maritime conventions which are beneficial to Hong
international
Kong.
Implications of accepting Annex III
8.
registered
The
The acceptance of Annex III would entitle Hong Kong
vessels when in the ports of other parties to Annex
III to prompt co-operation in matters related to pollution.
standing of the Hong Kong Shipping Register would be enhanced.
The standard of shipment
raised, thereby reducing
of harmful substances will also be
substantially the risk of dangerous
incidents and their pollution of the waters of Hong Kong.