§ 23. Mr. KIRBYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the intervention of foreign-owned coasters is again causing rates to fall to the detriment of British trade in vessels British owned and British manned; that shipowners claim that they are thus severely handicapped; that this in turn will adversely affect British shipbuilding, ship repairing, and coal industries; and what steps he proposes to take to protect this industry and increase employment therein?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI have received representations to the effect stated in the question, and I shall be glad to consider any proposals to remedy the position which may commend themselves to the shipping industry generally.