HC Deb 17 May 1881 vol 261 c685
CAPTAIN PRICE

asked the President of the Board of Trade, Whether he will cause inquiries to be made as to the sufficiency of the boat and life-saving accommodation supplied to emigrant ships sailing from Queenstown and other ports for America and Canada?

MR. CHAMBERLAIN

I have made inquiries on the subject of the Question, and I find that the size and number of life-boats and the character of the lifesaving apparatus in emigrant ships are already prescribed by statute. I have no doubt that the provisions of the statute are strictly observed in every case, and I believe that no emigrant ship leaves port until after inspection by an emigrant agent, as well as by a representative of the Board of Trade. As to the sufficiency of the statutory provisions, I can only say that, so far as I am informed, they are sufficient and, in fact, as extensive as would be practicable or desirable in all circumstances.