§ 19. Mr. GARRO-JONESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, having regard to recent disclosures in Board of Trade inquiries, he can see his way to set up a Departmental Committee to inquire into the rules governing the seaworthiness of British ships, including fishing vessels?
§ Dr. BURGINAs my right hon. Friend informed the House in the Debate in the Committee of Supply, on the 18th July last, the principal questions arising out of the reports of the inquiries into shipping casualties which had then been received have been dealt with in regard to manning and steering gear by reference to committees, and in regard to surveys by consultation between my Department and the classification societies. Until reports on these questions have been received, it is premature to consider what further action is required.
§ Mr. GARRO-JONESIn view of the fact that six months have now passed since that statement was made by the President of the Board of Trade, and that in the meantime ships are going to sea in an unfit state, how long shall we have to wait before these reports are received and action is taken upon them?
§ Dr. BURGINThe 18th July is nothing like six months ago. There is an inquiry the result of which is due to-morrow, and I think it would be better to await that.
§ Mr. DAVID GRENFELLWould it not be well, when ships are recommended for breaking up or demolition, that they should be ships which are unsuitable?