§ 31. Mr. KIRKWOOD (for Mr. MACLEAN)asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the German Government is proposing to grant a subsidy of 20,000,000 marks to German shipping; whether he has considered the effect this will have upon British shipping; and whether he can state what action, if any, the Government propose to take?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD OF TRADE (Dr. Burgin)I have seen reports in the Press to the effect stated in the first part of the question. The question of shipping subsidies is included in the draft agenda for the World Economic Conference.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODWill the hon. Member convey to the President of the Board of Trade the information that Germany is now building a new mercantile fleet and that they are being placed in an advantageous position so far as British shipping is concerned? May I also ask what action the Government are prepared to take to see that British shipbuilding firms are not handicapped by the result of the subsidy which Germany is giving?
§ Dr. BURGINI will convey that information to my right hon. Friend.