<h1>Parliament passes Merchant Shipping Bill expanding vessel ownership rules and setting marine casualty investigation provisions</h1> Parliament approved a new Merchant Shipping Bill aimed at broadening the eligibility criteria for ownership of merchant vessels and establishing provisions for investigations into marine casualties. The bill was passed by the Lower House earlier and subsequently approved by the Upper House through a voice vote despite opposition protests demanding discussion on electoral roll revisions in a specific state. The opposition's walkout and disruption led to a brief adjournment before the bill's passage. The legislation introduces updated regulatory measures governing merchant shipping operations.