§ 50. Mr. J. HENDERSONasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in 1168 view of public misgiving regarding the economic prospects of the "Queen Mary" and the public money involved, he will make a statement on the financial workings of the liner based on the experience of the first trip?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am not aware of any public misgiving such as is alleged by the hon. Member. I understand, also, that the results of the working of the "Queen Mary" so far have met the Cunard White Star Company's fullest expectations.
§ 51. Mr. DAYasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether any negotiations or conversations are taking place with His Majesty's Government at the present time regarding the construction of a sister ship to the "Queen Mary"; and whether he will give particulars?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI have received an application from the Cunard White Star Company for authority to use the sum available under the North Atlantic Shipping Act for the construction of a sister ship. After careful examination of the company's reasons, I have agreed to this in principle, but I have reserved rights of further consultation before any contract is signed. The company have obtained preliminary tenders from various yards, and I understand that, after considering them, they are negotiating in the first instance with Messrs. John Brown & Company, Limited, the builders of the "Queen Mary." As I have previously stated, the choice of builder must be a matter for consideration by the company on the relative technical and commercial merits of the case.
§ Mr. MAGNAYWill the question whether the River Clyde is big enough to take a sister ship be considered also?