§ 34. Sir P. Hannonasked the Minister of Transport how many refrigerator ships are now employed in the repatriation of German war prisoners from this country to German ports; why those ships are so used instead of in the transport of food for which they are specially fitted; and when Government-controlled shipping will be restored to private management and direction.
§ Mr. BarnesThe answer to the first part is none, Sir, and the second part does not arise. As far as the last part of the Question is concerned, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to a similar Question asked by the hon. Member for Lonsdale (Sir I. Fraser).
§ Sir P. HannonWould the Minister indicate to the House at what point of time in the near future the management of these ships will be given over to the private owners instead of being administered by his Department?
§ Mr. BarnesI am afraid the hon. Gentleman is under a considerable misapprehension. In the main the management of ships is already in the hands of the present owners. The licence is reserved for special circumstances, as I indicated, in general agreement with the industry.