HC Deb 04 December 1941 vol 376 cc1261-2
83. Sir W. Davison

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport what are the arrangements for supplying books, magazines and papers to ships of the Merchant Navy engaged on war work; and how the public can best assist in this matter?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Colonel Llewellin)

So much good work of the kind referred to by my hon. Friend is done by the Ministry of Information and by the numerous organisations interested in the welfare of seamen that it is not possible to give details within the limits of a reply. The public can help by sending gifts of money, books, etc., to the Seafarers' Education Service, Selwyn House, Endsleigh Street, London, S.W.1, or to any of the missions or organisations catering for the needs of seamen. Books, magazines, etc., might also be sent to any ship's company, any of the officers' societies or the National Union of Seamen.

Sir W. Davison

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the public are in very great doubts as to how they can send magazines and papers to members of the Merchant Navy? Will he consider putting receptacles in shops for the collection of these magazines and papers from friends of the Merchant Navy?

Colonel Llewellin

I will certainly consider my hon. Friend's suggestion, but I' think that the answer to the Question will show the public where they can send these books, which will be very much appreciated by the Merchant Navy.

Colonel Arthur Evans

Will the Parliamentary Secretary endeavour to arrange for these books and magazines to be handed over the counter at a post office in the same way as they are for the other Services?

Colonel Llewellin

I will go into that question as well.