HC Deb 21 November 1949 vol 470 cc16-7
29. Colonel Ropner

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the fact that a number of shipping companies are desirous of selling old ships in order to replace them by modern tonnage, he will lift or relax his ban on the sale of ships to foreign nationals.

The Minister of Transport (Mr. Barnes)

I have this matter under consideration, but am not yet in a position to make a statement in regard to it.

Colonel Ropner

Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that, owing to the implementation of his present policy, many millions of pounds have been lost to the industry due to the fall in value of second-hand tonnage, and is he prepared to accept full responsibility for the fact that many ships of the mercantile marine are now old or obsolescent?

Mr. Barnes

At the present moment I am not disposed to add to the reply I have just given to the hon. and gallant Gentleman.

Colonel Ropner

I beg to give notice that, in view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply given by the Minister, I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.