§ 79. Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller whether a Joint Industrial Council for the Mercantile Marine is in process of formation; if so, when it is expected that the first meeting will be held; what will be the nature of its constitution; and whether care will be taken to secure the representation of all seamen's organisations on such council?
Colonel WILSONThere is in process of formation a board or council of employers and employed in the Mercantile Marine, which will supersede the National Maritime Board set up by the Shipping Controller in November, 1917. It is proposed that the first meeting of the new body will take place on the 19th December, when a draft constitution will be submitted for acceptance. The question of representation on that body will be a matter for the board or council to determine.