HC Deb 01 July 1936 vol 314 cc407-8
67. Mr. EDE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has yet received the reports of the appropriate committees on the draft revised manning and steering regulations; and, if not, when he expects to receive them?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I received the final report of the Steering Gear Committee on 29th June. As regards manning, I understand that the Merchant Shipping Advisory Committee are at present considering the terms of a report supplementing and amending some of the proposals contained in their report of 13th February last. I hope to receive this further report very shortly.

Mr. EDE

Is it possible that these regulations will be published before the Recess?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I cannot say on what precise date they will be published, but we are hurrying them up.

Mr. MARKHAM

Will the right hon. Gentleman say what "very shortly" means, because a month ago we were told it would he very shortly?