The pros and cons of employing Chinese seafarers have been rigorously debated this year, with opinion split on the merits of selecting crews from this vastly expanding nation. However, as 2004 draws to a close, LSM has been pleased to note the discussions open up and take on more complex scrutiny of the subject in hand - as well as finding itself in the middle of a series of clashes of opinion concerning recruitment of Chinese crews. First of all, our Manning and Training in China preview (see "Asian crews hit the crash barrier", LSM October, page 27) attracted a response from Wen Rui, a Chinese-born and trained second officer, currently employed by China Ocean Shipping Company (Cosco). Mr Rui raised concerns regarding Matt Flynn's piece, viewing it as an overtly negative slant on manning developments within the PRC. "China does not lack a supply of first class, merchant navy officers who can speak reasonable English," Mr Rui opined to LSM.
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