4. Miss Wardasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will initiate conversations with the Canadian lumber trade to discuss the possibility of concluding an agreement for the increased utilisation of British shipping?
§ Mr. StanleyThis matter appears to be one for consideration in the first instance by the shipping industry. Any help I could give would, of course, be available.
Miss WardWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind that it would be much more likely to lead to a successful conclusion if these conversations were initiated with the full weight of His Majesty's Government, and will he consider that?
§ Mr. StanleyI doubt whether that is the case. I think that on the whole these matters are better initiated by the industries which are running his particular business, but, as I say, the Government will be only too pleased to assist in any possible way.
Miss WardIn view of that answer, will my right hon. Friend consider asking the shipping industry whether they would like to initiate conversations?
§ Mr. StanleyIt seems eminently a matter that is more suitable for the Tramp Shipping Administrative Committee when it is set up.