§ 65 and 66. Mr. MACLAYasked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether, in view of the continued competition of foreign subsidised tonnage, any decision has been arrived at to assist British shipping, either along the lines recommended by the British Chamber of Shipping or otherwise;
(2) whether, in view of the present type of competition going on between world shipping, he will endeavour to call an international conference of those nations affected by the present depression m order to consider international laying-up schemes or any schemes likely to mitigate the present position, or, failing which, will he recommend such a line of action to the British Chamber of Shipping?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Dr. Burgin)I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Sunderland (Mr. Storey) on 5th June. The suggestions made by my hon. Friend are among those receiving consideration.
§ Mr. MACLAYAs this matter has been before him for some time, can the hon. Member say whether we can hope for some statement to be made; also, whether an opportunity will be given after the statement for the matter to be debated on the Floor of the House; and that a period will elapse between the statement and the Debate so that the industry can consider and review the matter?
§ Dr. BURGINWith regard to the first part of the supplementary question, my right hon. Friend hopes to make a statement well before the Recess. With regard to the latter part, that is a question which should be addressed to the Leader of the House.
Captain ARTHUR EVANSIn view of the axiety created in shipping circles by a statement in the Press that the Government have already decided not to grant a subsidy, may I ask if the hon. Member is not in a position to deny it?