§ Mr. Stokesasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what is the limitation of shipbuilding in German shipyards today; and whether he is aware that Japanese shipyards are now being allowed to build whalers.
§ Mr. J. HyndBy the Potsdam Agreement Germany is prohibited from building sea-going ships. It has, however, been agreed by the Allied Council, that she should be allowed to build fishing trawlers. Capacity in German shipyards is also being maintained for the repair and maintenance of her coastal merchant fleet, her fishing fleet, mine sweepers, salvage and rescue vessels, and for her auxiliary craft. It has further been proposed that building of a certain number of ships should be undertaken to replace vessels of her coastal merchant fleet where necessary. The Japanese Government have been authorised to build five whale killer boats, three of 370 tons each, and two of 300 tons each.