§ SIR F. EVANS (Southampton)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether, having regard to the gradual decrease in the number of British seamen employed in the British mercantile marine, he will recommend to Her Majesty the appointment of a Royal Commission to inquire into the question.
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. C. T. RITCHIE,) CroydonNo, Sir; I hardly think this is a matter for a Royal Commission. It seems to me it is rather a matter for shipowners themselves to inquire into. Should such an inquiry be instituted, the Government will give consideration to any suggestions which may result.