§ 26. Mr. Wingfield Digbyasked the President of the Board of Trade what tonnage of British merchant shipping is now using the Cape route; and what was the figure in 1965.
§ Mr. William RodgersI regret that this information is not readily available.
§ Mr. DigbyBut this is the kind of information which the Department should be able to provide. Is it not clear already that the Suez Canal is not likely to be as important again? Will the hon. Gentleman consult the Government with regard to safeguarding the Cape route?
§ Mr. RodgersIt is necessary to have a sense of proportion about the collection of information. I agree that the Cape route is important and it is likely to remain particularly so as long as the Suez Canal is closed.