§ Mr. Shinwell(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Shipping whether he is now requisitioning British tonnage for the conveyance of essential Government imports into this country?
§ Sir J. GilmourYes, Sir. With a view to ensuring a regular importation of cereals by the North Atlantic route, I am now requisitioning British ships for the conveyance on this route of full cargoes bought by the Ministry of Food. I shall consider the extension of requisitioning for the conveyance of other essential Government cargoes as circumstances may render this course desirable.
§ Mr. ShinwellCan the right hon. Gentleman say anything at this stage about the financial arrangements?
§ Sir J. GilmourNo, Sir, not at this stage.
§ Mr. BurkeWill the Minister see that there is economic use of requisitioned ships, because some ships requisitioned since August have done only one week's sailing?
§ Miss WilkinsonDoes the right hon. Gentleman not now consider that the deleterious effect of the work of the National Shipbuilding Securities, Ltd., has left this country in such a position that there is not really sufficient shipping to requisition for this important work?