HC Deb 02 August 1944 vol 402 cc1368-9
25. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether a new agreement on the control of shipping has been signed, or is in contemplation between the Governments of the United Nations; whether the text of the agreement will be made available to the House; and whether British shipping interests were consulted in the matter.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Discussions are in progress with other Governments of the United Nations regarding the inter-Governmental arrangements to maintain control of shipping for the prosecution and completion of the war. It is hoped that a stage will be reached very soon when a short statement can be made, but many Governments are concerned in the matter, and it is not expected that any final statement can be made for some little time. The text of any agreement which may be reached will then be made available in a White Paper. Having regard to the scope and purpose of the discussions, no consultation has taken place with British shipping interests.

Mr. Shinwell

In view of the fact that this agreement contemplates controlling shipping through a United Nations organisation from the end of the European war until the end of the Pacific war, is it not desirable that, for that particular period at any rate, shipping interests should be consulted?

Mr. Noel-Baker

This is a conference between Governments about Government policy, and I think my Noble Friend has pursued the right course.

Mr. Bowles

Will the Minister tell the House what policy His Majesty's Government are pursuing in these negotiations?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir; I hope that in due course we shall have a Debate on the subject.

Mr. Shinwell

If Government policy, particularly in the interregnum between the two wars, affected shipping policy in this country, is it not very desirable that all the interests affected should be consulted?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Of course, shipping interests are affected by the policy pursued up to the end of the Japanese war, as they have been affected during the present war with Germany. It is all one war. The Government have settled the policy which they have pursued for the war with Germany and they must now settle the policy which they will pursue until the end of the Japanese war.

Mr. Bowles

Is the White Paper only a provisional document, or is it to be regarded as a fait accompli?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Before any international treaty is made, of course, it will be laid before this House.