§ 99. Mr. LEONARD LYLEasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller how many commercial vessels are now in dock or harbour refitting after the War in preparation for normal employment, distinguishing vessels from 1,000 to 5,000 tons, from 5,000 to 10,000 tons, and over 10,000 tons; and when he anticipates that the majority of these will become available to relieve the still acute shortage of means of transport?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of SHIPPING (Colonel Leslie Wilson)The numbers of vessels reconditioning under the supervision of the Controller-General of Merchant Shipbuilding are as follows:
It is anticipated that the majority of these steamers will be available within three months' time. In addition there are eight armed merchant cruisers of 5,000 to 10,000 tons and fourteen of over 10,000 tons in hand. The dates of expected completion run from May to November, but it is hoped to shorten this period to September. This statement does not cover vessels refitting for owners under their own responsibility, of which no figures are available.
Between 1,000 and 5,000 tons … 201 Between 5,000 and 10,000 tons … 26 Over 10,000 … 3