HC Deb 13 December 1938 vol 342 cc1783-4
6. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to ensure that while British shipping is finding it difficult to obtain freights, cargoes ordered or bought for the British Government shall be carried in British bottoms?

Mr. Stanley

As I have stated before in reply to questions in the House, it is the rule that only in exceptional conditions are ships other than British to be used for carrying Government cargoes.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Is it the view of the right hon. Gentleman that, if cargoes bought on Government account are carried in foreign bottoms, that is because British shipowners have had the chance of obtaining the charter and have not availed themselves of it?

Mr. Stanley

That was the case with regard to the Rumanian wheat, but it would be unfair not to point out that in many cases, although preferential rates were offered, owing to the fact that the British-owned ships were inconveniently placed, or were laid up, it would not have been economic for them to undertake just this one specific voyage.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Does what I said in my supplementary question apply generally, and not only in the case of the Rumanian wheat?

Mr. Stanley

As far as I am aware, there has been no other case, certainly this year, in which any other than a British ship has been chartered.