There are no powers under which a joint inquiry could be held. It is accepted international practice that inquiries into wrecks are held by the nation in which the vessel was registered. The purpose of such inquiries is to determine the cause of the accident and, where necessary, to take disciplinary action against members of the crew.

Witnesses can be subpoenaed provided that they are within the jurisdiction of the court. If, therefore, a British inquiry were held it might be difficult to obtain the attendance of the Greek crew, neither would the court have any power to discipline them.

For these reasons, we consider it undesirable to hold a parallel inquiry, especially as we have no reason to doubt that the inquiry in Greece will be strictly and fairly conducted. We shall carefully consider the findings of the Greek court, after which my right hon. Friend will take any further action that may seem necessary.