HC Deb 07 August 1911 vol 29 cc779-80
Mr. HUNT

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a single cabin return ticket from Sydney to London on a British mail boat is £140, whilst on a North German mail boat the return ticket is only £99; and, further, whether he is aware that the reason for this is that the German boats are heavily subsidised by the German Government; and whether he will take any action to prevent this advantage to German shipping?

Mr. TENNANT

In the time available I have not been able to verify the figures quoted, but I will make inquiries and communicate with the hon. Member.

Mr. HUNT

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the British Shipping Company, in order to help the Government emigration, fill up their ships with £12 fares and the £17 full fares go to Germany?

Mr. TENNANT

I am not aware of that.