§ 52. Mr. HOUSTONasked whether the Government have any intention of purchasing on State account some or any of the large British steamship companies; and whether any negotiations whatsoever have taken place in this direction?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer to both parts of the question is in the negative.
§ 53. Mr. HOUSTONasked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of the Government to purchase the International Mercantile Marine Company or, alternatively, to assist one or any of the all-British steamship companies to purchase this undertaking?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThere is no intention on the part of His Majesty's Government either of purchasing the undertaking referred to in the question or of giving any assistance out of public funds to any British company towards affecting such purchase.
§ 55. Mr. HOUSTONasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the disquietude in the minds of British shipowners owing to the uncertainty which exists regarding Government action or intention in connection with the nationalisation of British shipping; and whether he is prepared to make a definite statement on this matter?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am not aware of the disquietude suggested in the question, and I see no reason for it. The action suggested is not in contemplation by the Government.
§ Mr. HOUSTONIs the right hon. Gentleman prepared to make a statement as to the position and intention of the Government on this most vital question of shipping when the House next considers a Vote of Credit?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI do not understand what sort of statement my hon. Friend expects?
§ Mr. HOUSTONOn this question of the nationalisation of shipping.
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI think that I have answered that it is not in contemplation.