§ 65. Sir JAMES REMNANTasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that one of the concrete ships, the "Cretepond," built for the Government during the War, has been lying on the mud in Cardiff docks for several years, useless, and now unsaleable, with a caretaker on board drawing £5 per week wages; how much this vessel cost to build; how much has been paid, and is due, for dock dues and caretaker's wages; and what steps the Disposal Board took to stop this expenditure?
§ Viscount WOLMERI have been asked to reply. The concrete barge "Cretepond," which was built for the Government, has been lying in Cardiff docks for several years, as stated in the question. She was abandoned to the underwriters as a constructive total loss, but liability was disputed, and the matter will have to be settled by the Courts. The cost of the vessel is included with that of other vessels built—or partly built and cancelled—and cannot be given separately. £1,615 has been paid in dock dues and £303 for caretaking. £30,000 and expenses are being claimed against the underwriters. All possible steps are being taken to have the case heard in the near future.
§ Sir J. REMNANTCould not the Noble Lord take this £5 per week, and put it to a more useful purpose?
§ Viscount WOLMERI do not think so much money has been spent, but I have asked for further information. I will write to the hon. Gentleman.