HC Deb 19 December 1934 vol 296 cc1137-8
29. Mr. CLARRY

asked the President of the Board of Trade which countries inclusive of the Dominions, enforce discriminating regulations against British shipping, whether by rates, rebates, subsidies or differential port facilities?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

A number of countries give financial assistance in one form or another to their shipping, but, with one or two exceptions, I am not aware of the existence of any overt discrimination against British shipping of the kinds referred to by my hon. Friend.

Mr. CLARRY

Has my right hon. Friend also in mind any question of retaliatory measures against those countries which discriminate against British shipping?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I have particularly in mind the discrimination by the Portuguese colonies. I am glad to say that, by arrangement, that is now coming to an end.

Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in certain ports British liners are forbidden to land their passengers from their electric pinnaces,

of the workpeople in reference to wages are taken into account?

Following is the information:

and does he not think it is rather unfair that they should be compelled to take very unseaworthy tugs to land passengers when they have adequate launches on board?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I cannot without notice answer a question as to a particular instance such as that mentioned. If my hon. Friend will let me have particulars, I will look into them.