§ 1. Mr. SHINWELLasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the National Maritime Board has any official connection with his Department; if he is aware that this body is supplying seamen for employment on British ships; that such service is in direct contravention of the Merchant Shipping Act, which provides that only those in possession of a licence from the Department may supply seamen; and if he proposes to take any action in the matter?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Sir P. Lloyd-Greame)The National Maritime Board is composed exclusively of representatives of employers and employed and is entirely independent of the Board of Trade. I am not aware that the Merchant Shipping Act has been infringed by this body, and it does not appear that any action is required.
§ Mr. SHINWELLHave any complaints been received from seafaring men with regard to alleged victimisation; and, if so, will the right hon. Gentleman look into the matter?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMEI am not aware of any complaints having been 1158 Received. If the hon. Member hears of any cases and draws my attention to them, they will be looked into.