HC Deb 06 March 1906 vol 153 c298
MR. WILLIAM RUTHERFORD

I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the fact that certain British steamships using the port of Liverpool are manned by Chinese, to the exclusion of British labour; and whether he would be disposed to take any steps in the matter.

THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE,) Carnarvon Boroughs

Yes, Sir, and I admit the importance of the question referred to by the hon. Member. The number of foreigners in the British Mercantile Marine who cannot understand the English language is a matter of grave concern, and, in connection with the Shipping Bill to be shortly introduced, I am considering whether any palliative can be applied.

MR. JOYCE (Limerick)

Is it not the fault of the British shipowner that these foreigners are employed?

MR. SWIFT MACNEILL (Donegal, S.)

Because they accept low wages.

MR. WILLIAM RUTHERFORD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that my Question relates solely to Chinese labourers on British merchant ships?

MR. LLOYD-GEORGE

And I have answered the hon. Member's Question.

MR. JOYCE

Are not Chinese foreigners?