§ 28. Mr. THORNEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can state the approximate weekly cost to the shipowners of a 10,000-ton cargo boat that is lying idle on account of lack of trade; and what amount of dock dues have to be paid, if any?
§ Dr. BURGINThe cost of laying-up a vessel is dependent mainly upon the number of men kept on board and the amount of maintenance work carried out. The dock or harbour dues vary according to the locality, but form only a small part of the total cost. I am informed that the cost of laying-up a 10,000-ton cargo boat ranges between £16 and £31 a week, including dock or harbour dues.