TNAG-1630-FCO40-2246-Visits-by-Hong-Kong-Government-officials-to-China--the-UK-an-1987 — Page 105

(11)

Appendix V (2)

Fort Development in Hong Kong

by Mr. G.A. Higginson

Lirector of Marine

Role of the Marine Department

Marine Department of the Hong Kong Government, although responsible

for the administration of the port of Hong Kong, is in many ways more than

just a port authority. In aduition to undertaking the functions normally

carried out by a port authority, the department also undertakes functions on

behalf of the U.K. Government in respect of hong Kong being a port of Pritish

Registry. Hong Kong is in the top ten of the world's ports of register: about

8 million tons of shipping is registered there. In carrying out this registry

function, the Marine Department ensures the adherence to international safety

standards of all ships, and their crews, the Hong Kong Register. It also

carries out

local craft.

examinations of certificates of competency for ocean-going and

The Port

As one of the world's major ports, Hong Kong has earned an

international reputation for efficiency in continuing to meet the increasing

demands of modern shipping requirements. The Marine Department is responsible for the provision and operational effectiveness of public cargo working areas,

typhoon shelters, harbour mooring buoys, all ravigational aids, the design,

development and operation of a new radar controlled Vessel Traffic Management

System due to come into operation in 1999, overseeing the provisior and

standards of pilotage services and the phased introduction of compulsory

pilotage, and the strategic and

long term planning for all

all major port

facilities.

Page 105Page 106