§ 13. Mr. Shinwellasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the announcement that 44 fast ships are to be built for the Italian mercantile marine by 1941; that 37 of these vessels are designed for rapid cargo carrying while seven are to operate as passenger liners; that the ships are to be employed on almost all the recognised trade routes of the world; and whether he has any statement to make on the matter, having regard to the competition to which British shipping is already subjected?
§ Mr. StanleyI have seen reports of the plans for the construction of vessels for the Italian merchant fleet, to which the hon. Member refers. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative, but I have no doubt that these developments will be taken into account in the comprehensive investigation which 1785 the shipowners' organisations are now making into the position of the shipping industry in relation to foreign competition.
§ Mr. ShinwellHas the right hon. Gentleman any information as to whether these vessels are armed?
§ Mr. StanleyNo, Sir. I do not know whether the hon. Gentleman could get the information if he put the question down to the appropriate Ministry.