§ 82. Mr. G. LLOYDasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller if he is aware that the steamship "Macedonia" was ordered to Newport, Monmouthshire, for refitting over six months ago; if the nature of the repairs are unusual for the port, and if they are too extensive for the port; if there is but a very limited supply of shipwright labour; if such shipwright labour as is available refuse to work overtime; if there have been continual delays and interruptions during the progress of the work; and if he will in the public interest order the vessel to some other port for completion of repairs?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)I have been asked to reply. I am advised that after consultation with the local authorities, the repairs to this ship were not considered too extensive for the port in question. Shipwright labour is limited and in great demand all over the country. There have been delays and interruption during the progress of the work, but at this late period it is not considered expedient to order the vessel to another port for her completion.