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Thursday, December 20, 1973
MARINE DEPARTMENT LAUNCHES TO STEAM AT REDUCED SPEEDS
Another Measure To Save Fuel
In a further measure to save fuel, the Marine Department has
instructed that all its launches are to steam at reduced speeds.
A spokesman for the department said today that although exact
savings in respect of each launch have yet to be work out, it is expected
there will be an overall saving of diesel fuel of some 20 to 25 per
cent.
He emphasised, however, that the instructions would not apply
during emergency conditions.
At the same time, government officers requesting the use of
Marine Department pool launches to destinations served by ferries are being
required to use public transport. The sharing of launches for essential
duties has also been implemented where possible.
The spokesman said that contingency plans were being drawn up for
the operation of the department's launches in the event of the fuel
situation worsening.
Commenting on these instructions, a spokesman for the Oil Supplies
Department said that other boat owners should follow the example set by
the Marine Department and adopt similar economy measures.
"If everyone co-operated in this respect it would lead to a
considerable saving in diesel fuel," he said.