HC Deb 24 November 1926 vol 200 cc405-6
63. Mr. WADDINGTON

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that artificial silk goods produced on the Continent were shipped from Southampton to Montreal on 18th September, per the steamer "Empress of France," at the rate per ton of 47s. 6d., and that the rate for the same class of goods produced in Lancashire was 85s. per ton by the same steamer; and will he take steps to secure that British goods from British ports shall not be charged higher rates than foreign goods?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Sir Burton Chadwick)

I understand that the facts are as stated in the question, and that the reason for the difference is that Continental lines are, for various reasons, able to carry at a lower rate than their British competitors. British lines have therefore to carry at the Continental rate if they are to secure any of the business, either direct or transhipment, from Continental ports. There is no power to regulate freights or to require Continental rates to be charged from British ports.

Mr. WADDINGTON

Are there any means by which the Government can bring influence to bear in a matter of such great importance to this country? Is the hon. Member aware that the difference between Continental freights and British freights is the equivalent of one-half to three per cent. on the cost of the goods, and that causes a great deal of trade to go to the Continent which ought to be kept in Lancashire?

Sir B. CHADWICK

I am aware of these discrepancies, but there is no power for the Government to interfere with these shipping freights.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Is the hon. Member not of the opinion that it is the high charges for home freights which make it possible to give these low rates to the foreigners?

Mr. JOHNSTON

Are the facts now disclosed not definite confirmation of the Preston Committee's Report which the hon. Gentleman's Department would have nothing to do with a year ago, and is it not clearly proved that there is an international shipping ring putting up prices?

Sir B. CHADWICK

I should want notice of that question.

Mr. JOHNSTON

You know all about it.

Sir B. CHADWICK

If I did, I would answer it. The question of freights on silk is an unusual item to choose. A difference of 40s. a ton on the value will not be regarded as a great burden on the purchaser of the silk.

Mr. WADDINGTON

Is the hon.. Member aware that in the calculations of the ton and the freight ton, there is a very great difference, and that the difference on artificial silk is three-quarters per cent. on the value of the commodity in this particular case, and that in the average of cotton goods a freight ton is only one-third of the actual ton, and that that makes a very great difference on the value of the goods?

Mr. SPEAKER

I am afraid the hon. Member is now giving information.