I move for leave to introduce the Oil in Navigable Waters Bill, 1925. This is described as being "A Bill to restrict, control and where necessary prohibit the discharge or escape of oil into navigable waters." This is a matter which has caused a certain amount of trouble in all maritime countries, and legislation somewhat similar to this Bill has been introduced, or there has been an agreement to introduce it in other countries in order to do away with this matter of the discharge or escape of oil in navigable waters, which is now regarded as a very definite disadvantage for many reasons which will be explained on the Second Reading. It has even got to the point that international action as between maritime countries is being considered with a view to enlarging the area. The Acts passed in different countries of course only relate to territorial waters, but there is a question of taking steps even with regard to prohibiting this on the high seas. This Bill is, as I say, of the type that has been introduced into several countries. The details are pretty well the same everywhere and they can be discussed on the Committee Stage.
Leave to introduce the Bill given.
Bill read a first time.