HC Deb 23 April 1923 vol 163 cc41-2
73. Mr. JARRETT

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department, whether his attention has been called to the conditions on the steam ship "Berrima" during its recent voyage to Australia; and whether it is proposed to take any action in the matter?

Lieut.-Colonel BUCKLEY

I would refer to the replies which I gave to the hon. Member for the Bothwell Division on the 19th February, and to the hon. Member for the Maryhill Division on 28th March.

Mr. JARRETT

Is it not a fact that these replies refer to the accommodation on these two ships whereas my question refers to the conditions, and is it not a fact that the Australian papers had reported very adversely upon the conditions? Has a committee of inquiry been set up in Australia, and, if so, are the Imperial Government represented on it?

Lieut.-Colonel BUCKLEY

No inquiry has been held in this country.

Mr. JARRETT

In Australia?

Lieut.-Colonel BUCKLEY

I do not know whether any inquiry has been held in Australia, but we have had communications from the Australian Government, and they deny the allegations.

Captain BERKELEY

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman give an undertaking that there will be a proper Parliamentary inquiry into the matter, and is it not a fact that one of the passengers committed suicide in Australia in consequence of the vile accommodation?