HC Deb 02 February 1937 vol 319 cc1407-8
76. Mr. Grenfell

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that the steamship "Maria Toft" left Cardiff last week and was anchored in Barry Roads to pick up a crew sent from Germany; and whether this has been done in accordance with the Aliens Order and with the authority of the Ministry of Labour in regard to the employment of seamen?

The Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)

I have made inquiries and find that this Danish vessel arrived at Cardiff on 14th January bound for Vigo, and as some of the crew declined to proceed the owners made arrangements for their repatriation and their replacement by others, including six German seamen. As these seamen were not for employment in the United Kingdom, Ministry of Labour permits under the Aliens Order for their engagement were not required.

Mr. Grenfell

Is it the case that this vessel anchored within the three-mile limit and took on the German crew in British territorial waters?

Mr. Lloyd

There is nothing unusual in a foreign ship taking on foreign seamen.

Mr. Grenfell

But is there nothing unusual in taking a ship out of port for the specific purpose of embarking another crew when the legitimate crew have signed their contracts?