34. Major BARNESasked the Prime Minister if his attention has been called to the resolution moved by the ex-president of the Chamber of Shipping, and passed by the North of England Steamship Owners' Association, on Monday the 30th ultimo, demanding a free and unrestricted world's market for the sale of tonnage; and whether this war-time restriction will now be removed?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Baldwin)I have been asked to reply. I have seen the resolution referred to in the question, and will do what I can to remove the remaining restrictions on the transfer of ships as soon as it is possible to do so.
Major BARNESIn view of the fact that the shipbuiding trade has depended in the past very largely on the sale of British shipping abroad, can the right hon. Gentleman say in what period of time he hopes to be able to get rid of these restrictions?
§ Sir G. RENWICKIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that at present the market is flooded with ships, principally ex-German ships, which the British market cannot absorb, and it is having a serious effect on the shipbuilding trade, and there is no earthly hope of a recovery while the ships are in the market?
§ Mr. BALDWINThese considerations are naturally present to my mind. I cannot give a more definite reply at this moment. Perhaps the hon. Member will put down a question.