§ 47. Mr. Wallasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will make a statement about his future policy under the Ships and Aircraft (Transfer Restriction) Act, 1939.
§ Mr. WatkinsonHitherto my approval under the Ships and Aircraft (Transfer Restriction) Act, 1939, has been required for all transfers or mortgages of United Kingdom and colonial ships abroad. I have decided to give in the near future a general sanction under that Act permitting, with certain exceptions, the free transfer or mortgage of ships to all countries abroad. The exceptions relate to the sale of certain categories of ships to countries in the Soviet bloc and China and also to the sale of former naval craft to any foreign country.
It has also been decided, in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Power, to discontinue the procedure whereby the sale of ships abroad for scrap will be permitted only if the British Iron and Steel Corporation (Salvage) Limited is not prepared to match the foreign price.
§ Mr. WallWill not it be easier to transfer ships outside this country, that is, to Commonwealth or to foreign ownership, and how will this affect the British shipping industry?
§ Mr. WatkinsonMy hon. Friend is quite right. This is something asked for by the shipping industry as an easement of its trading position, and I hope that it will be of some help.