HC Deb 29 May 1934 vol 290 c7
11. Mr. T. SMITH

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether it is proposed to grant any financial assistance to the shipping industry?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am not yet in a position to add anything to the answers which have been given to previous questions on this subject. The consultations are proceeding.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if the Cabinet is really considering the question of giving the shipping industry any support whatever with a view to giving employment to those who are unemployed?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Yes, Sir; the employment aspect of this question is constantly before us.

Captain ARTHUR EVANS

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any indication when the Government will be in a position to make a definite announcement?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

It is very difficult to name a date when there are so many interests to be consulted. We are taking the best means at our disposal to thrash out these problems thoroughly.