§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Tennant)I think it will be convenient to the House to give a brief explanation of the purpose of this Bill. It is designed to meet the requirements of those who discharge cargoes in our ports, those who trim coal, and those who stow cargoes, in order that they may secure the wages due to them for the work they have done. When a ship is owned or chartered by a foreigner who has no place of residence in this country, the men who discharge or stow cargo or trim coal have no means of enforcing a claim for wages. They are not seamen, and they have no "maritime lien." This Bill gives a power to apply to the Court for an order for the arrest of the ship. Such an order will empower a Customs officer to detain the ship until either the claim has been paid or adequate security given to meet the decision of any action instituted. If there be a fear that the ship may sail before a decision can be arrived at they can apply to the Board of Trade, and the Board of Trade, through their officers at the port, may detain the ship until the workmen have received the 393 wages which are due to them. The provisions of the Bill apply as well to charterers as to owners of ships which are owned by foreigners who have no place of abode in this country.
§ Question put, and agreed to.
§ Bill read a second time, and committed to Committee of the Whole House for Monday next.