HC Deb 24 April 1968 vol 763 c221
28. Mr. McMaster

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will take steps to place British shipping companies in a position to match competition from foreign shipping companies which enjoy special tax advantages extended to them by the countries in which they are registered.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

This is a very far-reaching proposal and I would certainly want to await the report of the Rochdale Committee before considering it.

Mr. McMaster

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that because of the heavier burden of taxation on them, British shipping companies are placed at a considerable disadvantage compared with certain of their overseas maritime competitors? Will he take steps to consider the position as soon as possible?

Mr. Mallalieu

I think that that is true of ships sailing under flags of convenience, but it is not necessarily true of others. It is a complicated question, and one which the Rochdale Committee is considering.