90. Sir H.DALZIELasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the fact that shipowners still continue to charge high rates for freight, he has considered the advisability of tabulating rates that may not be exceeded on the basis of the rates charged in 1913, with a reasonable figure added to meet the rise in the cost of coals, wages, and provisions?
§ Mr. PRETYMANThis proposal to fix general maximum rates of freight for goods not owned by the Government has been fully considered, but we came to the conclusion that it was unworkable and would not have the effect desired. For wheat, sugar, etc., owned by the State vessels are requisitioned at Blue Book rates and for meat at fixed rates already made public.