§ 22. Mr. Shinwellasked the Prime Minister whether he is in a position to state the Government's intentions on the creation of a Ministry of Shipping?
§ The Prime MinisterThe Government intend to establish a Ministry of Shipping at an early date and plans for its establishment have been in existence for some time past. I am, however, satisfied that, 631 at this moment, when the organisation to deal with shipping problems is being very rapidly expanded, there is much to be gained in efficiency by retaining that organisation for a further period within the Board of Trade, where it has the advantage of the existing legal, financial and establishment services and has not to dissipate energy in constructing a new machine to deal with these matters.
§ Mr. ShinwellDoes the right hon. Gentleman not appreciate the fact that it is easy to switch over the present machinery to a Ministry of Shipping; and is it not important to co-ordinate the whole of the activities of the Merchant Navy under a single head?
§ The Prime MinisterI think that, obviously, follows from what I said, that it is the intention of the Government to establish a Ministry of Shipping. What I endeavoured to convey was that there was a considerable process of expansion going on that would take perhaps a week or two longer, and that while that expansion is going on it is much better to keep it under the Board of Trade.
§ Mr. LoftusWill the Ministry include the fishing fleet?
§ The Prime MinisterI must have notice of that question.
§ Mr. A. EdwardsHas the right hon. Gentleman noticed the increase in certain shipping shares, and will he give a warning to the investing public that there is to be no profiteering?