§ 49. Mr. BYRNEasked the President of the Board of Trade what steps the Government intend to take to control the shipping of this country; and if he is aware that shipowners are at present making huge profits as a result of the War?
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Roberts)I am aware of the profits which have been made by some shipping companies. All British ships are now under full control. A very large proportion are requisitioned by the Government, and no ship can start on any voyage without a licence.
§ Mr. HOUSTONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in various forms of taxation 78 per cent. of the profits of shipowners are taken by the Treasury, that our Allies are exempting shipowners from all taxation, and that the taxation upon neutrals is infinitesimal compared with that imposed upon British shipowners?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member had better put those questions to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.