§ MR. W. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the Associated Chambers of Commerce at their meeting yesterday passed a resolution in favour of the Government introducing a Bill to amend the laws relating to bills of lading; and whether it is intended to bring in a Bill which will bring shipowners under the ordinary carriers' law?
§ MR. RITCHIEI am aware of the resolution to which the hon. Member refers, and if it is brought before me formally it shall receive my careful 506 consideration. I am not, however, prepared at present to propose any legislation on the subject.