TNAG-2308-FCO40-3345-Future-of-Hong-Kong-shipping-register-1991 — Page 145

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accept certificates issued by other administrations

after examination where, after due investigation, the

Hong Kong Administration is satisfied that they were

obtained by examination, training and sea service of

equal standard. It would be necessary to re-investigate

standards from time to time to see that they remained

adequate. It should be said at this point that at

present any investigation might well preclude the

acceptance of certificates presently issued by certain

flag of convenience countries even though many local

seamen hold such certificates. We believe that existing

standards, which have a direct bearing on the competency

of the crew and therefore safety of the ship and its

establishment, cannot be compromised for the expedient

of goodwill.

6.5.

We do, however, subscribe to the view that

Hong Kong people should be assisted in obtaining

positions on Hong Kong registered ships. We believe

that this can best be achieved by providing the training

facilities to enable potential seafarers at all levels

to acquire the necessary skills and qualifications.