RESERVE OF MERCHANT SHIPS.

HC Deb 13 June 1939 vol 348 c1094

41. Mr. David Adams

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any second-hand tonnage is being purchased by the Government; and will he give the names of his Advisory Committee upon these transactions?

Mr. Stanley

A considerable number of ships have been offered for the reserve of merchant ships and these offers are being considered by the Advisory Committee as quickly as possible. With the hon. Member's permission, I will circulate a list of members of the Advisory Committee in the Official Report.

Mr. Adams

Is the Minister aware of any sales of British vessels to foreign buyers?

Mr. Stanley

Offhand I cannot say that I am aware of any.

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Is this a case of second-hand tonnage for a second-hand Government?

Following is the list:

Merchant Ship Reserve Advisory Committee Members.

Sir David J. Owen, Chairman. Formerly General Manager of the Port of London Authority.

Mr. C. C. Arnell. Of C. C. Arnell & Company, Shipbrokers.

Mr. G. W. C. Davis, O.B.E., Chief Accountant, Board of Trade.

Mr. G. Tristram Edwards. Joint Managing Director, Smith's Dock Company, Limited, Shipbuilders and Ship-Repairers,

Mr. W. Graham, M.B.E. Mercantile Marine Department, Board of Trade.

Mr. F. A. Griffiths, M.C. Assistant Secretary, Board of Trade.

Captain M. J. Mansergh, R.N. Director of the Trade Division of the Naval Staff, Admiralty.

Sir John Niven. Of Andrew Weir & Company, Shipowners.