HC Deb 26 January 1948 vol 446 cc667-8
97. Colonel Hutchison

asked the Minister of Transport when he expects the working party examining the turn-round of ships in British ports to submit their report; and if it will be made available to Parliament.

Mr. Barnes

The investigations of this working party are being pursued with all possible speed, and I hope to receive their report within the next two or three months. I will bear in mind the hon. and gallant Member's suggestion that the report should be made available to Parliament.

Colonel Hutchison

Is the Minister aware that that is not good enough? Will he promise to make it available to Parliament, as the report of this working party is extremely important, in view of the fact that the turn-round of shipping provides the greatest single factor for saving shipping space?

Mr. Barnes

I should not like to commit myself until I see the report.

Colonel Clarke

Will the Minister instruct the working party to pay particular attention to the effect of the turn-round of coastal colliers as a result of the five-day week?

Mr. Barnes

I do not think that the five-day week seriously affects the turn-round of coastal colliers, which have been doing a very good job of work indeed.

Colonel Clarke

Will the Minister assure himself that that statement is correct?

Mr. Barnes

The turn-round of all shipping in all the ports is under investigation at the moment by this working party.