§ 13. Mr. MILLSasked the President of the Board of Trade if his inspecting staff have reported the condition of s.s. "Berengaria"; whether he is aware that it is reported that this vessel has a defective rudder-post; and, in view of possible danger, will he insist upon strict inspection?
Mr. WEBBThe Board's survey staff at Southampton were fully aware of the slight damage which was sustained by the rudder of the "Berengaria" in August, 1922, and are satisfied that it does not in any way affect the efficiency or safety of the vessel.
§ Captain BERKELEYIf there be a structural defect in the ship, surely it ought to be remedied at once.
Mr. WEBBI have not said that there is any structural defect, but that the rudder had sustained some slight damage. 1149 The ship has since been proceeding on voyages, and the Board's surveyors are satisfied.
§ Mr. MILLSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these huge passenger-carrying liners are usually re-conditioned by no fewer than 800 mechanics, and that there is a possible danger that in view of the present trade dispute these vessels may go out of port again without that re-conditioning?
§ Sir B. CHADWICKIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these matters are very carefully supervised by Lloyd's surveyors, who have to do with these ships and whose interests, with the interests of the owners, is quite as great as that of the hon. Member?
Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. HALLIs it not a fact that very often ships are surveyed and go under what are called temporary repairs, leaving the permanent repairs to be carried out later?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe right hon. Gentleman cannot be expected to answer that question.