§ 8. Colonel PERKINSasked the President of the Board of Trade if the attention of his Department has been called to the difficulties in connection with the chartering of ships for the Australian cargo trade; and whether, in that case, he can take any action to adjust matters with the object of avoiding loss of tonnage to British shipping?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI am aware of the differences which have arisen between shippers and shipowners in this trade. I understand that one matter, relating to the appointment of shipping agents, remains in dispute. I share the hon. Member's hope that this dispute may be speedily settled by mutual agreement; but I do not think the Board of Trade could usefully intervene.
§ Sir FREDRIC WISECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the statistics show that foreign ships are getting into the Australian trade more than they did in the past?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThat does not arise out of the question, but if notice is given, I will see what statistics there are.