§ 69. Sir P. HARRISasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the adverse effect on freight of the policy of quotas and trade restrictions; and whether, in the interests of British shipping, he can undertake that the policy of the Government will be directed to see that these restrictions shall be removed?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI am aware that shipping is suffering from the reduction in international trade due, among other causes, to quotas and trade restrictions. The policy of the Government is to promote the increase of trade through
§ 57. Mr. SHINWELLasked the President of the Board of Trade what accommodation has been proided for the crew of the "Queen Mary"; how much cubic space of sleeping accommodation has been allotted per man; what accommodation for meals, recreation and washing is being provided; and whether he is satisfied that the arrangements comply with the needs of the crew?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANAs the answer is long and contains a table of figures, I will circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT. The messing arrangements for the stewards are not yet settled. For the rest, the provision made satisfies the Board of Trade requirements.
§ Agreements providing for the removal of such obstacles as far as possible.
§ Sir P. HARRISHas the right hon. Gentleman seen the statement by the chairman of the P. & O. Company pointing out what a serious effect quotas and restrictions have had on the shipping trade between Australia and this country, and that it may lead to a decrease in the number of ships carrying goods between this country and Australia?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANWe shall certainly pay attention to any representations.
§ Mr. REMERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the imports and exports of this country have both increased?