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Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have considered making it obligatory for disputes in service industries such as the railways to be submitted to an independent arbitrator before strike action can be taken. [HL3985]
The Secretary of State for Transport (Lord Adonis): Industrial relations issues are matters between employers and their staff. The Government would expect that any disputes that could not be settled by discussion should be settled by using the various mechanisms that are available.
Shipping: Ferry Operators
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the Maritime and Coastguard Agency was aware that in September 2008 the ferry MV CANNA operated by the Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd was operating without a valid passenger carrying certificate; and, if so, what action they took. [HL3986]
9 Jun 2009 : Column WA148
The Secretary of State for Transport (Lord Adonis): On 3 October 2008, whilst completing the annual survey of the MV CANNA, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) became aware that the vessel had operated without a valid passenger certificate between 1 and 11 September 2008. The previous survey was carried out correctly, and had the MCA issued the correct paperwork, the passenger certificate would have been valid for a full year through to 18 September 2008.
The MCA has audited the operating company under the International Safety Management Code arrangements. During that audit the MCA reminded Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd of its responsibilities that not only the surveys are carried out on time, which it did, but to ensure that the paperwork is correct.
Sport: Swimming
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what measures are in place to ensure that consultation on swimming policy is balanced and incorporates the views of all swimming industry stakeholders. [HL3975]
The Minister for Communications, Technology and Broadcasting (Lord Carter of Barnes): Government are in close consultation with a range of stakeholders including the Local Government Association, the Chief Cultural and Leisure Officers' Association, the Amateur Swimming Association (as the governing body for swimming) and Sport England. We will continue to work with these and other relevant stakeholders as appropriate.
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