HC Deb 17 February 1931 vol 248 c1056
43. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the President of the Board of Trade what percentage of the ships of the Royal Merchant Navy are now oil-burning?

Mr. W. R. SMITH

According to Lloyd's Register book, which contains particulars relating to vessels of 100 tons gross and upwards, there were on the register about the middle of last year 9,172 steam vessels of 20,648,000 tons gross registered at ports in the British Empire. 12 per cent. of the number and 30 per cent. of the gross tonnage were steam vessels fitted for burning oil fuel.