§ MR. JENKINS (Chatham)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that on 3rd June, 1907, a crew was engaged for the steamship "Adelina Patti," at Newport, Monmouthshire; that only three qualified A.B.'s were signed on the articles of the ship; and that on the previous voyage the steamship "Adelina Patti" carried six A.B.'s; whether he can state if the superintendent at Newport directed the Board of Trade surveyor's attention to 331 the manning of the steamship "Adelina Patti"; and whether any steps were taken to ascertain whether the steamer was manned by an efficient crew.
§ MR. LLOYD-GEORGEI find that a boatswain, three A.B., and three ordinary seamen at the full A.B. rate of wages were engaged on the "Adelina Patti" on the 3rd instant. The vessel had more than the minimum number of deck hands required, and the case was not referred to the surveyor. On the previous voyage this vessel carried a boatswain and six A.B.'s.
§ MR. JENKINSIs the right hon. Gentleman of opinion that three able seamen are sufficient for a vessel of this tonnage?
§ MR. LLOYD-GEORGEThis matter was very carefully considered by a Committee of this House some time ago, and regulations were framed in compliance with its recommendation. I am told that this vessel has complied with these requirements.
§ MR. HAVELOCK WILSON (Middlesbrough)To what regulations is the right hon. Gentleman referring?
§ MR. LLOYD-GEORGEThe regulations made under the Act of 1897 by the Board of Trade.
§ MR. HAVELOCK WILSONAre we to understand that these regulations allow a vessel of this tonnage to proceed to sea with less than six qualified able seamen?
§ MR. LLOYD-GEORGEI am not quite sure as to the tonnage of this vessel. I will look into that matter. My hon. friend knows perfectly well what the regulations are, and our surveyor reports that in this case the regulations were complied with.