§ 73. Mr. Storeyasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the need for an efficient Mercantile Marine in time of war, His Majesty's Government has considered offering special facilities to ship-owners to replace United Kingdom-owned cargo and passenger ships, which are over 25 years old, with modern vessels?
§ Captain WallaceA scheme somewhat on the lines that my hon. Friend suggests IN as brought into operation by the British Shipping (Assistance) Act, 1935. Under the "Scrap and Build Scheme," 50 new cargo vessels for the United Kingdom register were constructed involving the scrapping of 49 old British vessels and 48 old foreign vessels. The period during which the financial facilities were made available under the Act expired in February, 1937. As at present advised, my right hon. Friend does not think the reintroduction of a scheme of this nature necessary.
§ Mr. StoreyDoes not the safety of the country demand greater cargo carrying tonnage than it at present possesses, and as shipbuilders are in need of orders, would it not be well to take steps to replace vessels which are over 25 years of age, of which there are a great number?
§ 74. Mr. Storeyasked the President of the Board of Trade whether any plans have been prepared for a rapid expansion 1122 in the construction of cargo-carrying vessels and tankers in the event of war?
§ Captain WallacePlans for securing the maximum output of merchant shipping in the event of war have been under consideration, in close co-operation with the shipbuilding industry, for some time. Special attention is being given to the production of cargo-carrying vessels and tankers.
§ Captain Sir Derrick GunstonWill my right hon. and gallant Friend say whether his Department are watching an experiment for using gas-producer engines using solid fuel in ships?
§ Mr. PalingDoes this mean reopening some shipyards which have been closed?
§ Captain WallaceProbably not; it might be better to work double shifts in the existing yards.