HC Deb 23 July 1913 vol 55 cc2038-9
38. Mr. PETO

asked the value of imports of raw material and manufactured articles into Germany for the year 1912, and similar figures for the United Kingdom?

Mr. BUXTON

In order to afford a proper comparison it will be necessary to reclassify the German imports on the lines of the classification adopted for the United Kingdom Trade Returns. This reclassification will be proceeded with, and I hope to be able to furnish the hon. Member with the figures he desires in the course of a few days.

39 and 40. Sir MARK SYKES

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether he will appoint a representative of the seamen, sailors, and firemen on the Load Line Committee; and (2) the names, port of registry, and tonnage of all vessels on which the load line was raised and which have foundered or stranded since the alteration in the load line?

Mr. BUXTON

As I have already explained, the questions involved in the assignment of freeboards to vessels are of a technical character and the Load Line Committee has been so constituted as best to deal with these questions. It would have been inconsistent with the nature of the inquiry to appoint a Committee representative of particular interests. The Committee would welcome any evidence directed to the question of the effect of the alteration in the load line. With regard to vesesls lost since the tables of freeboard were modified in 1906, I do not see that the particular Return suggested would enable any correct conclusion to be drawn with reference to the matter under inquiry, but the Board of Trade are furnishing, and will furnish, the Load Line Committee with all particulars they require with regard to any class of casualty.

Sir W. BYLES

May I ask whether the lowering of the load line is not a matter in the discretion of the President of the Board of Trade?

Mr. BUXTON

Certainly not; it has to be done under statutory regulations, and certain persons have to be consulted. In this case I have appointed a Special Committee to see how far the load line should be altered.

Sir W. BYLES

Will the right hon. Gentleman inform me what Statute it is which enables him to lower it?

Mr. BUXTON

I do not know what the hon. Member means; but, if he will give me notice, I will endeavour to get him the information which he wants.

Sir W. MENZIES

When was this alteration, which creates considerable interest, made?

Mr. BUXTON

In 1906.