HC Deb 16 May 1939 vol 347 cc1175-6
26. Mr. Bellenger

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether in the case of those ships transferred from the British register to foreign ownership within the last six weeks, the Board of Trade were consulted prior to the transactions taking place?

Mr. Stanley

The Board of Trade were notified prior to the completion of the sale to foreign owners in the following cases: "Laleham," "Peckham," "Meopham," "Essex Envoy" and "Tuscania." The remaining ships concerned were sold before owners generally were asked to notify the Board of Trade of proposals to dispose of vessels on the United Kingdom register to foreign buyers.

Mr. Bellenger

In view of the criticism which has been levelled by the right hon. Gentleman against certain owners who sold their ships abroad recently are we to understand that the strictures apply equally to all owners who sell their ships contrary to the wishes of the Board of Trade; and what is to be the position of these owners if they apply for Government subsidy?

Mr. Stanley

The case to which the hon. Member refers was that of an owner who asked for the views of the Board of Trade and, on being told that the views of the Board of Trade were against such sale, then completed the sale. I have pointed out that, except in five cases, including the case referred to by the hon. Gentleman, which have already been referred to in the House of Commons, all the cases occurred before the general notification by the Board of Trade.

Mr. Shinwell

Does the right hon. Gentleman not realise that unless the Board of Trade take power to prevent shipowners from transferring vessels to foreign flags, the Board of Trade are helpless in the matter?

Mr. Stanley

Or unless the Board of Trade take power to purchase those vessels and hold them in reserve, a matter which I understand will be brought up later this afternoon.

Mr. Shinwell

Such circumstances as the right hon. Gentleman has indicated do not prevent certain shipowners from transferring their vessels, if they so care?