§ 84. Sir Arthur Salterasked the Minister of Shipping whether, in arranging with shipowners the terms of remuneration for requisitioned ships, he is proceeding on the principle of fixing terms which, with due regard to increased costs, will secure a normal rate of net profit on peace-time standards and no more?
§ The Minister of Shipping (Sir John Gilmour)As I explained in the answer which I gave on 17th October to a question by the hon. Member for Consett (Mr. David Adams) rates of hire appropriate to the conditions of service will be paid in respect of merchant ships which have been requisitioned. I have noted the hon. Member's suggestion as to the basis on which he considers the rates should be fixed.
§ Sir A. SalterCan the right hon. Gentleman give any indication as to whether he has in his own mind a standard somewhat like that, as at present we have been given no indication whatever?
§ Sir J. GilmourI am looking very care-fully into the whole of this problem, including the matters raised by the hon. Member.