§ 22. Mr. Benjamin Smithasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can state the practice in operation in fixing the wages of masters of foreign-going vessels; what standard is adopted in this matter by the Tramp Shipping Administrative Committee in examining claims for subsidy; and if he is aware that on certain ships to which subsidy payments are made the wages are as low as £22 per month?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Dr. Burgin)Rates of pay for masters are fixed by private agreement between the owners and the master concerned. So far as I know, no standard rates of pay for masters have been agreed upon and the second part of the question therefore does not arise. With regard to the last part of the question, I have no information on the matter?
§ Mr. SmithWill the hon. Gentleman represent to the Maritime Board the necessity of re-establishing the masters' panel?
§ Dr. BurginThat is another matter, but I will convey that suggestion to my suggestion to my right hon. Friend.