§ 60. Mr. PETOasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the ships of the Khedivial Mail Steamship Line, comprising a fleet of eighteen vessels flying the British flag and registered at London, which carry a number of passengers of British nationality and otherwise and also mails, are to a very large extent commanded and officered by Italians, Austrians, Turks, Greeks, and Arabs; and whether in several of these vessels both master and officers are wholly aliens; if so, whether he is intending to take any steps in the matter?
Mr. ROBERTSONAs far as can be ascertained, the facts are generally as stated by the hon. Member. As at present advised, my right hon. Friend does not propose to take any action in the matter.
§ Mr. BARNESMay I ask if any inquiry has been made as to the wages of these officers to see whether they comply with the Fair-Wages Clause, having regard to the fact that this company has a Government contract?