A Great deal has already been written about possible amendments to the Collision Regulations, but as there may be an international conference on the subject in 1972 the various schemes should be discussed as much as possible so that their advantages and disadvantages will be fully appreciated.

Criticism of the present Steering and Sailing Rules is mainly concerned with Rule 21. Disadvantages of this rule include the following:

(1) If a giving-way vessel on a crossing course takes no action the privileged vessel must not act until collision cannot be avoided by the giving-way vessel alone. By such time collision is likely to be inevitable.

(2) Small sailing vessels which may not easily be seen, especially at night, are required to maintain course and speed for large power-driven vessels.

(3) High-speed vessels such as hovercraft are required to maintain course and speed for low powered ships crossing from the port side.

(4) No provision is made for different types of hampered vessel approaching one another so as to involve risk of collision. If deep-draught vessels in certain areas are to be included in this category in the future the question of priorities may have to be considered.