§ 45. Mr. Benceasked the Prime Minister what discussions he had with the President of the United States of America during his recent visit on the threat to British shipping arising from the discriminatory practices of the United States administration in regard to their passenger ships.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Macmillan)None, Sir.
§ Mr. BenceDoes not the Prime Minister agree that the maintenance of the British Mercantile Marine and British shipbuilding at the highest possible level is vital to Britain and the British Commonwealth? Will he make representations to the President of the United States on the effect on British shipping of American practice, both in their maritime laws and in the extensive subsidies they are paying for the construction of passenger ships and merchant vessels?
§ The Prime MinisterOf course, many United States shipping companies, as well as companies of some other countries, receive shipbuilding subsidies, but there are also other features of international shipping which cause the Government even greater concern at the present time. These matters are being actively considered by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport.