§ 39. Sir R. Thompsonasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the conclusions of the Greek Committee of Inquiry for Maritime Accidents into the "Lakonia" disaster, including the finding that rescue ships, some of which were British, did not assist with their own life-saving apparatus or approach sufficiently closely; and what action he will take in the matter.
§ The Minister of State, Board of Trade (Mr. Roy Mason)The only British ship which was in a position to play a major part in the rescue operations was the "Montcalm", and my information is that her actions were irreproachable. Under Greek law this matter now goes to a superior court for further consideration, and I am taking steps to bring to its notice our disagreement with the findings of the Committee of Inquiry in relation to British rescue ships.
§ Sir R. ThompsonWill the hon. Gentleman accept the great satisfaction of those of my constituents who were survivors with the tone of his Answer? Will he make sure, as much as lies in his power, that this disgraceful slur on our seamen is not allowed to go unchallenged?
§ Mr. MasonMost certainly. Let no one in the House or anyone outside it be under any illusion, especially those who may have been affected by this accident, that representations in the tone that I have used in the House will be made to the superior Greek court.