§ Mr. SEDDONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the national concern for news of the ss. "Waratah," he can promise an inquiry into the various systems of wireless telegraphy with a view to making an installation compulsory on all vessels carrying passengers, and at British and Colonial ports?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe question of the installation of wireless telegraphy apparatus on passenger ships has been, and will continue to be, very carefully watched by the Board of Trade, but I do no think any useful purpose would be served by a special inquiry at the present moment.
§ Mr. SEDDONCan the right hon. Gentleman give us any indication as to the sympathy of the Government with any inquiry into these various systems, if it was only on behalf of the greater security of human life? Is he aware that two of the large steam shipping companies who have subsidies from the Government have not this installation upon their steamers carrying large numbers of passengers?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe installation is desirable, but I do not think the time has come when action of a general or compulsory character could be taken, and I do not think this is the best opportunity in the interests of a more general adoption of the installation for an inquiry.