§ 25. Colonel Ropnerasked 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 the ban on the sale of ships to foreign nationals.
§ Mr. BarnesControl over the sales of ships to overseas buyers must continue in the interests of national defence and security. But, within wide limits, I permit the maximum freedom of sale to enable shipping companies to build up funds for replacement.
§ Colonel RopnerDoes the right hon. Gentleman really think that it is in the national interest to compel ship-owners to keep old ships while allowing foreigners to buy modern efficient tonnage in this country?
§ Mr. BarnesThey are not compelled to keep old ships. At certain ages of ships there is a free sale and in the next age category owners are permitted to sell provided funds are blocked for replacement.
§ Colonel RopnerWhy does the Minister keep this control on at all?
§ Mr. BarnesAs I pointed out, in the interest of national defence and security.