§ 39. Sir P. Hannonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether, in connection with the fire which occurred in the French liner "Normandie," in New York harbour, any British subjects employed on the ship suffered death or injury; and whether His Majesty's Government will be represented in the investigation which will take place on the disaster to the vessel?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Mr. Noel-Baker)I have no reason to suppose that any British subjects were on board the 'Normandie" at the time of the fire. There was no British crew on the ship, which was entirely under U.S.A. control. If the hon. Member has any grounds for thinking a British subject suffered death or injury, I should be pleased to have inquiries made if he would give me particulars.
§ Sir P. HannonWill my hon. Friend answer the last part of the Question and say whether the British Government will be represented at the investigation?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIn view of the fact that the vessel was entirely under United States control and there was no British crew, I see no reason why His Majesty's Government should be represented. If the hon. Member has any specific information on this matter, I shall be glad if he will let me have it.