XN000022-1994-12-14 — Page 42

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The proposed amendments to paragraph (d) in Article I, paragraphs 3(a), 6 and 7 in Article III and paragraph 4 in Article IV of the Schedule are stylistic changes to the Chinese text.

Paragraph 8 of Article III serves to nullify any provision in a contract of carriage which relieves the carrier or the ship from certain liability or reduce their liability. The proposed amendment removes any possible divergence in meaning between the English text and the Chinese text.

The proposed amendment to the Chinese translation of the term "servant" in Article IV is to adapt the latest drafting style.

Mr Chairman, I beg to move.

End/Wednesday, December 14, 1994

Amendments to clause of Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Economic Services, Mr Gordon Siu, in moving the committee stage amendments to a clause of Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Mr Chairman,

I move that clause 2 be amended as set out in my name in the paper circulated to members.

Members may recall that the purpose of the Bill is to implement in Hong Kong by domestic law an international convention and 2 Protocols which are currently implemented in Hong Kong by United Kingdom enactments.

The liability in respect of the carriage of goods by sea provided for by the Bill covers all aspects of shipping activities. The term "trading" in clause 2 relates more generally to travelling between ports. The proposed amendment to the Chinese text will reflect more accurately this intention.

Mr Chairman, I beg to move,

End/Wednesday, December 14, 1994