HC Deb 13 December 1938 vol 342 cc1785-6
17. Mr. Benjamin Smith

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether a register of British coastal shipping has been compiled; and whether, before agreeing to any scheme for the reconditioning or augmentation of the coastal shipping service, he will undertake to consult trade union representatives of the men engaged in the service?

Mr. Stanley

A register of British coastal shipping has been prepared for emergency purposes. As I have previously stated, the position of the shipping industry is the subject of an inquiry by the shipowners' organisations at the present time. If the seamen's organisations concerned with coastal shipping desire to submit a report to me on the question, I shall be glad to consider it.

Mr. Smith

Do the terms of reference embrace coastal shipping?

Mr. Stanley

I understand so. There are no formal terms of reference, but I understand that one section of the inquiry will be devoted to it.