We are grateful to the promoter and the Minister for speaking clearly and relatively briefly, which was important. They could have said much more.
The Minister’s clarity and commitment are welcome. We trust that those who come to the meeting in December will reach agreement on the draft code of conduct. I am not saying that no word can be changed, but having a system of review and, if necessary, arbitration, will make a difference. I emphasise that that is not just for those who go to sea in small boats. My open canoe will not carry an anchor or much heavy equipment, besides
me, unless I lose a bit of weight. It affects commercial shipping, the ferry companies, the fishing industry and other harbour users.
I also want to make it plain that no one will defend unsafe use of our waters. Collisions will happen, but not to learn the lessons from things that go wrong would be to fail to honour the memory of those who have suffered at sea.
I am grateful for the Minister’s comments and for the co-operation of those who advise him. On the basis of what he has said, I do not intend to press any of my amendments to a Division. I cannot say that I withdraw the amendment happily—I should have preferred a different way—but I will withdraw it.
The Minister’s amendments are worth supporting. I beg to ask leave to withdraw the amendment.
Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.