§ 6. Mr. Peytonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will take an early opportunity to discuss with the United States Secretary of State the divergencies of views and policies on shipping matters which have arisen between the United Kingdom and the United States of America.
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreMy right hon. and learned Friend has discussed these matters with United States' Ministers on several occasions. Further talks will take place between officials in Washington next month.
§ Mr. PeytonWhilst I am glad to hear that, would not my right hon. Friend agree that this situation has really become so serious now that the problems can only be solved between Governments on a very high level? Will my right hon. Friend make it absolutely clear to the American Government that a continuation of the use of discriminatory practices, the continuing use of flags of convenience and the entering upon a war of subsidies, which would be uneconomic and ruinous in the long run, can only do harm? Will he really make certain that the American Government bring urgent attention to a problem far too long neglected?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreI certainly agree with a great deal that the hon. Member has mentioned.
§ Mr. ShinwellWill the right hon. Gentleman understand that many of us, if not all of us, are very resentful of the attitude adopted by the United States Government and shipowners in the United 833 States and that unless something drastic is done there will be a disastrous result for British shipping which we cannot afford? Will the right hon. Gentleman make it quite plain to his right hon. and learned Friend the Foreign Secretary that we expect something to be done at a very early stage?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreI quite appreciate that, and I know that it is the feeling of the whole House. We have, partly or our initiative, organised the meeting which is to take place next month between not only us and the United States, but a great many other maritime Powers which are equally concerned about United States practices.