§ 72. Mr. Thorneasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can give the House any information in connection with the overloading of the motor vessel at Blyth, Northumberland, on 21st January; and whether he is aware of the statement made by the Newcastle-on-Tyne magistrates about the overloading?
§ Mr. RuncimanI assume that the question relates to the motor vessel "Actuosity," detained at Blyth by a Board of Trade surveyor on 21st January, who ascertained that the appropriate load line was submerged to the extent of three inches. The Board of Trade instituted proceedings against the master under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1932, and the summons was heard at Newcastle on 3rd March, when the master pleaded guilty and was convicted and fined £25 and costs. I am aware of the statement made by the magistrate in this case.