HC Deb 21 October 1946 vol 427 cc1292-3
17. Mr. Orbach

asked the Minister of Transport whether the s.s. "Sam Trent" and s.s. "Sam Vigna" have now left Singapore harbour; what is their destination, and how long were they lying in Singapore harbour; what cargo were they carrying; what was its original cost; and what is the total estimated cost, including freightage and harbour charges, to His Majesty's Government.

Mr. Barnes

On the general question I would refer to the reply I gave to the hon. Members for Orpington (Sir W. Smithers) and Moseley (Sir P. Hannon) on 14th October. The vessels spent 89 and 63 days respectively at Singapore. The cargoes were purchased by the War Office on behalf of the local civil authorities, but I am unable to give an estimate of the total cost involved.

Mr. Orbach

Is the Minister aware that this cargo of non-combustible coal, which originally cost the country between 60 and 80 cents when purchased from the United States, has already cost us some £5 per ton in freightage, and that the authorities do not know what to do with it?

Mr. Barnes

I cannot verify the figures given by my hon. Friend because other Departments are involved. Until they have been consulted, I cannot state the position.

Mr. Walter Fletcher

Which is the local authority continually responsible for delays in Singapore harbour?

Mr. Barnes

I am afraid I cannot give all the details regarding this cargo. I provided the ships, and other Departments will have to be consulted before the full story can be told.

Mr. Walkden

When are we likely to have a statement about the delays in Singapore? Young officers who have returned tell us that the cost to the nation must be in the neighbourhood of £50,000. Ships ought not to have been delayed for weeks on end, as in recent months.

Mr. Barnes

I have already explained to the House the difficulties of handling cargoes and shipping in Singapore owing to the serious war damage. While the situation is grave and difficult, I think the figures should be accepted with some reserve until they are checked.

Mr. Orbach

Will my right hon. Friend deal with the question of this specific cargo separately from other ships lying in the harbour there? As this cargo is claimed to be non-combustible coal would it not be better if we cut our losses, and dumped it into the sea?

Sir. Fletcher

Will the right hon. Gentleman reply to my question? Who are the responsible authorities in Singapore? I got a completely irrelevant excuse from the right hon. Gentleman, which was no answer at all.

Mr. Barnes

If the hon. Gentleman will put down a Question I will endeavour to give him a proper reply.