The objective of the Directive is to set up in the Community a vessel reporting system in order to improve the safety of shipping and the prevention of pollution by ships. It does not apply to warships and other official vessels used for non-commercial purposes, nor to stores and equipment for use on board. These amendments sought among other things to point out that the setting up of a European vessel reporting system requires a draft of the technical measures in order to harmonize the operation of all the VTS systems, and the installation of highly efficient vessel identification systems. The Commission has approved some of the amendments. On 21 November 1994 the Council reached political agreement on the adoption of a common position.
Formal adoption is scheduled for the next meeting.