HC Deb 17 February 1899 vol 66 cc1292-3
MR. HAVELOCK WILSON

I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a Russian and a Swedish seaman were engaged on board the steamship "Treveau" at Penarth on the 12th December, 1898, and that neither of these men could speak or understand English, or the common orders on board ship, and whether any interpreter was present, at the time they were engaged, to explain to them the nature of the articles of agreement which they were asked to sign; if he can state at what rate of wages the able seamen and firemen engaged on the ss. "Treveau," and what was the current rate of wages paid on other ships at Penarth at the same time; and, whether those men were signed on at the mercantile marine office or on board the vessel?

THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE

I am informed that a Russian and a Swede were engaged on the s.s. "Treveau" as stated in the question. The Swede, I am told, could understand orders; the Russian, though not a master of the English language, was willing and attentive. Both performed their duties to the entire satisfaction of the master. The services of an interpreter were insisted upon by the Board of Trade officer at Penarth. It appears that the sailors and, firemen of the "Treveau" signed for £3 15s. 0d. and £4 per month respectively, and that the wages paid to seamen of other vessels were from £3 5s. 0d. to £4 15s. 0d. for sailors, and from £3 10s. 0d. to £4 15s. 0d. for firemen. The men signed on board the "Treveau," not at the mercantile marine office.

MR. HAYELOCK WILSON

Arising out of the answer, I should like to ask the right honourable Gentleman why an interpreter was called in if it is correct that these men understood English.

THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE

It is quite conceivable that a man might understand sufficient English to perform the ordinary duties of a sailor on board ship, and yet not be able to enter into a discussion with regard to the terms of his service.

MR. HAVELOCK WILSON

Will the right honourable Gentleman see that in all cases in which foreign seamen are engaged, an interpreter is called in to ensure that they understand the articles that are being read out?

THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE

There was an interpreter in this case.

MR. HAYELOCK WILSON

I shall put a further Question on Monday.