HC Deb 08 May 1918 vol 105 cc2124-5
5. Colonel ROYDS

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether any monthly or other returns are made showing the time and tonnage lost by reason of ships Lying in harbour laden or partly laden, ships making passages only partly laden, ships making one port and having to discharge at another port, and delay in discharging or loading of ships; and, if so, whether he will publish returns from time to time showing the tonnage hours so lost?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of SHIPPING (Sir Leo Chiozza Money)

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. The points raised in the question are met in practice by keeping a close watch on the movements of each ship individually. The circumstances are so diverse that this is the only method of dealing with the matter effectively. No return of the kind indicated is, therefore, available. I am glad to be able to add that, apart from necessary delays caused by the exigencies of war, there is exhibited a constantly increasing efficiency in the turn-round and handling of shipping.

Mr. G. FABER

Can the hon. Gentleman state whether any returns are made locally in Kent?

Sir L. CHIOZZA MONEY

That is indicated in my reply.