§ 13. Mr. LESLIE BOYCEasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs what communications have been received from the Governments of Australia or 181 New Zealand regarding the unfair competition of foreign subsidised shipping in their waters; and what, if any, replies have been sent?
Mr. J. H. THOMASCommunications have taken place and are taking place with His Majesty's Governments in the Commonwealth of Australia and New Zealand, but I am not at present in a position to make any statement on the subject.
§ Mr. BOYCEDoes not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the question of policy involved is entirely a matter within the discretion of the Australian and the New Zealand Governments?
§ Mr. BOYCECan the right hon. Gentleman say when he is likely to be in a position to make a statement if I put down a further question on the subject?
§ 23. Mr. BOYCEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has any information as to the level of Wages paid by the American subsidised Matson Line running in competition with British interests in Australia and New Zealand shipping between America and New Zealand and Australia; and whether such wages are higher or lower than those paid by Australian nd New Zealand shipowners?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANSuch information as is in my possession at present suggests that the wages paid by the Matson Line are lower than those paid by Australian and New Zealand shipowners.