HC Deb 08 May 1905 vol 145 c1132
SIR ERNEST FLOWER (Bradford, W.)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Board of Trade whether he will state the number of passengers between Harwich and the Hook of Holland, and to and from those ports during each of the last five years.

THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY TO THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. BONAR LAW,) Glasgow, Blackfriars

I regret that I am not in a position to give the desired information.

SIR ERNEST FLOWER

It it the fact that this information is obtainable at every other port?

MR. BONAR LAW

We have absolutely no power to obtain the evidence. If they do not wish to give it they will not do so, and if they do not object they will give it to my hon. friend.

SIR. ERNEST FLOWER

Will the hon. Gentleman ask for it?

MR. BONAR LAW

I have no objection.

SIR ERNEST FLOWER

Do the Great Eastern alone of all companies refuse the information?

MR. BONAR LAW

We get a good deal of information from them.

* MR. CLAUDE HAY (Shoreditch, Hoxton)

These figures appear in the Consular Report for every port except this one-Will the hon. Gentlemen represent to this company that they are the only company which withholds the information?

[No Answer was returned.]