HC Deb 03 March 1936 vol 309 c1171
29. Mr. PRICE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that certain British firms which are owed sums from German importers and cannot receive payment have placed orders with German shipbuilding firms for the supply of cargo ships, tankers, and trawlers in settlement of their claims; and whether he will take any action to prevent this injury to British shipbuilding industry and the facilitating of naval rearmament in Germany by lowering overhead costs in German yards?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am aware that orders for ships have been placed in Germany as a means of withdrawing credit balances from that country. With regard to the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Sunderland (Mr. Storey) on 18th February.

Mr. SHINWELL

Has the right hon. Gentleman made any representations to those who have caused these ships to be built?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Communications have passed.

Mr. SHINWELL

What has been the consequence of them?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

We have been better informed.