HC Deb 23 October 1946 vol 427 cc1651-2
25. Mr. Keeling

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether the Government propose to allow British merchant ships to fly the Union Jack.

Mr. Dugdale

I have consulted my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport, and it is not proposed to make any change in the flags flown by the Merchant Navy.

Mr. Keeling

While I do not question that decision, will the hon. Gentleman give the reasons for it, in view of the public interest in this matter?

Mr. Dugdale

It is 300 years since this rule was introduced, and we have had no official representations in favour of changing it, and there does not seem to be any reason why it should be changed. I feel that the Merchant Navy are proud of their "red duster," and want to keep it.