§ 18. Mr. CHADWICKasked in which countries does the law compel, now or at a future date, the equipment of the wire less telegraphy on trading vessels; and what is the lowest tonnage to which the law applies in each of these countries.?
§ Sir A. GEDDESLaws are in force in the United States and in the Argentine Republic requiring all merchant vessels carrying fifty or more persons to be fitted with wireless, irrespective of their tonnage. A similar requirement is contained in the International Convention on 1799 Safety of Life at Sea, and will be enforced in due course by the countries which have ratified that Convention, namely, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, and Sweden.
§ Mr. CHADWICKIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the law on this subject as it exists in Spain, Greece, and France?
§ Sir A. GEDDESNo, Sir; I am not sure that I know the exact law in the countries to which my hon. Friend refers. We have information about the number carried, and our own position with regard to that.
§ Mr. CHADWICKWill the right hon. Gentleman postpone the consideration of the Report stage of the Wireless Telegraphy Bill until his Department has obtained information as to the law in other countries, and will he lay before the House a full statement of what other countries are doing in this respect?
§ Sir A. GEDDESIf my hon. Friend will give me notice I will answer his question.