---

Merchant Shipping Pollution Bill [HL]

First, I declare an interest in that I was responsible for shipping from 1974 to 1979—a long time ago. If the amendments that we are considering are aimed simply at elucidating government policy, that is perfectly all right. However, I warn the noble Lord, Lord Hanningfield, that there is absolutely no obligation on anyone to speak in this Committee. In my view what the amendments seek to do is simply wrong, subject only to the point that I have already made. I believe that the amendments are misconceived in that they fail to accord with the international legislation regarding compensation for oil damage by ships which we have an obligation to support. I am afraid that all the amendments fall foul of that point. Subject to that, there is some point in asking the Government to elucidate upon the Bill, particularly on the points raised. I do not think that my noble friend should take these amendments too seriously.