TNAG-1314-FCO40-1696-Working-papers-for-use-at-talks-on-the-future-of-Hong-Kong-1984 — Page 44

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dues can

be paid direct to Trinity House in respect of foreign

vessels using the Port of London.

44.

It is generally recognised that the problems of UK marine

pilotage are such that further legislation may be required.

This is being considered separately for inclusion in the Bill.

Inquiries into the Fitness or Conduct of an Officer

45.

Section 37 (4) of the merchant Shipping Act, 1979 provides

that the person holding an inquiry into the fitness or conduct of

an officer shall have the powers of an Inspector in the Department

of Transport. It has been found in practice that such powers are

not entirely appropriate and it is proposed to replace them with

powers similar to those vested in a magistrate.

Inquiries into Deaths of Crew Members and Others

46. Under Section 81 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1970, when

a person dies on a UK registered ship an inquiry into the death

must be held unless there is to be a coroner's inquest. An

amendment is needed to give the Secretary of State greater

flexibility in this respect. Where the cause of death has

been clearly established, no inquiry may be required even though

a coroner's inquest is not to be held. On the other hand

an immediate inquiry may be necessary, where an inquest is likely

to be delayed and the cause of death has not been established.

Formal Investigations Into Shipping Casualties

47. The arrangements for holding formal investigations into

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