§ 13. Mr. F. Willeyasked the Minister of Labour what effect the heavy reduction in freight rates is anticipated to have on employment in the shipbuilding industry.
§ Sir W. MoncktonI understand that the fall in tramp shipping freight rates has not affected the demand for new tonnage; ships ordered or under construction are sufficient to keep the shipbuilding industry fully employed for several years.
§ Mr. WilleyWhile fully accepting the right hon. and learned Gentleman's statement of the position as it is now, may I ask if he is aware that a collapse in freight rates such as this almost invariably has a drastic effect on the order books of the ship builders? Will he keep in close consultation with his right hon. Friends the President of the Board of Trade and the Minister of Supply to see that the necessary steps are taken in advance of this world position affecting our shipbuilding industry?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI have been in touch with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport, but I will certainly widen my consultations.