§ 15. Captain Ryderasked the Minister of Transport to what extent British shipping is penalised by flag discrimination; and what representations have been made to other countries in this connection.
§ Mr. BarnesI regret that it is not possible to state the extent to which British shipping has been penalised by flag discrimination, nor to state, within the limits of a Parliamentary answer, the representations that have been made to other countries in this connection, but as the hon. and gallant Member is aware it is the policy of His Majesty's Government to do their utmost to secure the removal of all forms of flag discrimination.
§ Captain RyderWould the right hon. Gentleman say whether this practice is increasing or decreasing?
§ Mr. BarnesIt all depends on the periods. I should say that, in the immediate post-war years, there has been a tendency for it to increase. The Government continually follow these matters up and make representations with a view to minimising them as far as possible.