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of them as are able to pilot a ship efficiently, the issue of a licence as pilot is not practical for the following reasons:-
(a). The pilots are Chinese and are employed almost entirely in foreign waters. If licences are required the Chinese Maritime Customs would appear to be the appropriate authority for their issue.
(b). 'Unless a 'River Inspectorate were established it is difficult to know where a competent examiner could be found to ́examine candidates in seamanship and a comprehensive knowledge of the rivers of the Canton delta.
(c). It is felt that this Commission cannot encroach upon the maritime responsibilities of another power, whatever its' opinion on the subject may be.
'General.
8. The Commissioners are of the opinion that the irregularities which exist in a certain class of River Steamer are the direct result of the employment of unsuitable mas- *ters and there is no doubt but that, in certain cases, the employment of such masters is -advantageous to both parties.
9. It is apparent (though direct evidence was, for obvious reasons, difficult to ob- tain) that owners exist who prefer a master who, whilst holding the qualifications required by law, will countenance any irregularity that increases the earnings of the ship. At the same time masters are obtamable who, through age, misfortune, or other causes are "compelled to 'accept whatever terms may be offered them.
Masters in these circumstances are probably required to refund a considerable por- tion of the agreed salary and such a practice can only be attractive to an undesirable type of master.
-10. To find a remedy for this state of affairs is clearly no easy matter and, since "neither party can be expected to co-operate, some form of coercion would appear to be
necessary.
Three possible lines were considered :—
(a). Legislation with regard to the engagement of masters (Ruled out as imprac-
ticable, vide para. 13)
(b). "Action by H.B.M: Consul General, Canton (vide para. 14).
(c). The possibility of action by the China Coast Officers Guild.
We
The last suggestion opens up large questions outside our terms of reference. nevertheless consider that, were the guild in a better position to exercise its influence, this particular difficulty could readily be overcome.
11. It is considered that the further supervision of ships and the determined co- operation of Masters and officers themselves would eventually eliminate undesirable offi- cers and establish the appointment of those who would insist on equitable terms of employ-
ment.
12. We are of the opinion, based on our personal inspection of River Steamers, that every 'River Steamer should be inspected immediately prior to sailing. To give effect to this proposal we recommend the temporary appointment of two additional Boarding Officers, one of whom should, if possible, "have some experience as a Marine Surveyor. It is thought that the nett cost of these appointments would not be considerable and would at least ensure that those owners whose ships are run in accordance with the best tradi- tions of the Mercantile Marine would not be penalised by the unfair competition of other badly found ships.