HC Deb 15 October 1945 vol 414 cc683-4
39. Sir P. Hannon

asked the Minister of War Transport to what extent improvement has been effected in shipping facilities for British goods to South American ports; and if he can give an assurance that further accommodation for consignments awaiting export will be made available with the least possible delay.

Mr. Barnes

I am able to provide shipping facilities for all the manufactured goods now available for shipment to South America. At the end of September only small quantities of manufactured goods were registered with the shipping lines as awaiting shipment. Shipping is being arranged to lift these items together with any others as they come forward. At the moment there are orders outstanding for large quantities of cement for Brazil, and shipment is being effected as quickly as labour and other facilities can be provided to bag the cement for export.

I should like to take this opportunity of saying that the position in regard to South America is typical of the export trade generally, and I have every reason to believe that I shall be able to provide sufficient shipping to cover any manufactured goods becoming available for export.

Sir P. Hannon

May I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his reply, but at the same time ask him if he realises the importance of providing shipping with the least possible inconvenience to the shippers, in view of the importance of establishing and restoring our foreign trade?

Mr. Barnes

I thought my reply already covered that point.