§ 83. Mr. W. THORNEasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that no fewer than 420 ships, ranging from trawlers to passenger ships and liners, were handed over in pursuance of the inter-Allied agreement, and that the purchasers still owe the Government £2,876,507; if he can give any reasons why the various shipowners have not paid that money to the Government; and if he will take action in the matter?
§ Viscount WOLMERAs explained in my answer to the hon. Member for Linlithgow on the 3rd instant, in certain cases the original contract of sale of the reparation ships provided for payments of a portion of the purchase price in instalments. The amount outstanding in those instalments at the end of last month was £2,465,605 9s. 6d., and this is being collected as and when the payments fall due.
§ Mr. McENTEEIs interest being charged?
§ Viscount WOLMERYes, in every case except two, where it is provided that interest shall not be charged.
§ Dr. SALTERIs it not a fact that certain companies to which these ships were sold are now in liquidation?
§ Viscount WOLMERAll these payments have been made to date.