HC Deb 13 May 1964 vol 695 cc414-5
7. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Transport if he will make a statement on the recent policy announced by the United States Federal Maritime Commission relating to British shipping and freight contracts between British and United States shipping with particular reference to the work and policy of the North Atlantic Shippers Association.

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

After the recent attempts of the Federal Maritime Commission to cancel dual freight rate contracts and impose its own models, the American authorities have expressed their willingness to discuss the features we find obectionable in the new contracts. Talks between the American authorities and the interested Governments are starting in Washington this week. If they are successful, they will be followed by discussions between the Federal Maritime Commission and the shipowners.

My Ministry has been in close touch with all the appropriate United Kingdom interests including the North Atlantic Shippers' Association.

Mr. Hughes

I am glad that the hon. and gallant Gentleman, with his great naval experience, has answered this Question. However, he has not directed his mind to the important consideration that the Government are repudiating the traditional doctrine that Britain should be mistress of her own shipping and freight services. Will he direct his attention to this with a view to ensuring that the British flag is kept flying in these matters?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

I do not know the grounds on which the hon. and learned Member suggests that the British Government are repudiating their view on this subject. On the contrary, we do not intend to concede any principles, either in this matter or in the general sense. We believe that in the interests of trade the United States authorities will be ready to come to a sensible working accommodation which is fair to both sides.

Mr. Webster

Is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that it is wholly repugnant that contracts freely arrived at should be under the scrutiny of another Power and that my right hon. Friend the Minister is to be congratulated on the international arrangements which he has made to make sure that this view is most forcibly represented to the United States?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

I appreciate the second part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question. It is quite true that we have been guided in all these matters by the importance of keeping the 10 European maritime Powers, together with Japan, working together. We hope that by that means our influence will make itself felt.

Mr. Strauss

Who will be conducting the negotiations on behalf of the British interests at the discussions in Washington which are shortly to take place? Will they be Government representatives?

Vice-Admiral Hughes Hallett

Several Powers will be involved in the discussions. The negotiations on behalf of this country will be conducted by representatives from the embassy in Washington, reinforced by a lawyer from the Ministry of Transport.

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