§ 64 Sir Hugh O'Neillasked the Minister of Transport the reason for the present congestion of shipping in the Brazilian ports; and what steps he is taking to ease it.
§ Mr. BarnesSerious shipping congestion has recently been reported only at Santos; the delays are mainly attributable to labour and inland transport difficulties. The British Shipping Mission in Washington is in touch with the U.S. Government whose ships are also affected. The U.S. Government have made representations to the Brazilian Government who have undertaken to make improvements. Meanwhile, the British liner companies serving this trade are restricting calls at Santos.
§ Sir H. O'NeillAs the United States Government made representations, would it not be a good plan for this Government also to make representations?
§ Mr. BarnesWe keep in touch on these matters.