HC Deb 25 February 1947 vol 433 cc1864-5
18. Mr. Granville Sharp

asked the Secretary of State for War how many troopships are now used to transport soldiers between this country and India and the Far East; to what extent the type of accommodation, meals and amenities have been improved during the last three months; and what further improvements are contemplated.

Mr. J. Freeman

An average of 15 troopships are at present employed to transport Servicemen between this country and India and the Far East. During the past three months, the capacity of troopships in service has been reduced, and the majority of the sleeping accommodation thus released converted to extra amenity space. In view of the accelerated rate of release in the next three months, this process of improving amenities at the expense of berths will be considerably slowed down. With a few exceptions, which have been corrected during the voyage, there has been no cause of complaint either as to quantity, quality or preparation of meals. These have been in accordance with the scales laid down in regulations.

22. Mr. Sharp

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that H.M.T. "Eastern Prince" is an unsatisfactory troopship; and when it is proposed to improve the ventilating system and the galley facilities and to ensure effective supervision of the catering service.

Mr. Bellenger

I am not aware that the "Eastern Prince" is an unsatisfactory troopship, though her most recent voyage to the Far East did give rise to an unusual number of complaints, which are being investigated. I have so far received no complaints about the homeward bound voyage just completed.

Mr. Hare

Will the right hon. Gentleman consult with his right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport who ordered an inquiry into the conditions of the outward voyage; and will he see that the shocking conditions endured by the passengers who had to undergo that voyage are taken into consideration when he is examining it?

Mr. Bellenger

I have already said the complaints are being investigated. I do not agree with the hon. Member that the conditions are shocking. Indeed, there were no complaints on the homeward voyage.