HC Deb 20 June 1935 vol 303 cc566-7
Sir ROBERT ASKE

(by Private Notice) asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can make any statement arising out of the findings of the Wreck Commissioner in the inquiry into the loss of the "Usworth"?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I have the findings of the Commissioner under exhaustive examination. I can, however, say that it is my intention to set up at once an inquiry into the question of the type of steering gear fitted to cargo ships and to communicate with the interests concerned with reference to the observations of the court on the subject of manning.

Mr. THORNE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether that inquiry will include an investigation into the question of deck cargo; and has he read the speech delivered by his father the other day?

Mr. GRENFELL

Will the hon. Gentleman take into consideration also the very important question of the manning of these vessels?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

If my hon. Friend had listened to my answer, he would have heard that that is one of the subjects which will be dealt with.