Mr. GORDON HARVEYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether an inquiry will be held into the circumstances of the collison which took place on 1st March between the steamers "Le Nord" and "Lockwood"; and whether he can state how many persons, including passengers and crew, were on the steamer "Le Nord" at the time, and what accommodation she has in lifeboats; and whether she is provided with water-tight compartments?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Buxton)I understand that litigation as regards the question of the collision between the steamship "Le Nord" and the steamship "Lockwood" is pending. It is not proposed to order a formal investigation in the case. The first named vessel is under the French flag, and does not hold a British passenger steamship certificate. By the courtesy of the directors of the Chemin de Fer du Nord, I am informed that there were about 350 persons on board, including passengers and crew, at the time of the collision; that the vessel has six boats, four of which are lifeboats, and is provided with watertight compartments.
§ Mr. ASHLEYHow many of the passengers and crew would have been saved by the six boats?
§ Mr. BUXTONIn this case there was no loss of life.
§ Mr. ASHLEYHow many of the passengers and crew would have been saved by these six boats?
§ Mr. BUXTONPerhaps the hon. Gentleman will give me notice of the question and I will endeavour to answer it.