§ 22. Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Minister of Transport whether he will give a general direction to British Railways prohibiting them from chartering foreign ships when suitable British ships are available.
§ Mr. CarmichaelNo, Sir. Such a direction would be inappropriate and unnecessary.
§ Mr. RidsdaleIs the Minister aware that since the Question was put down British Railways have acted on this advice? To save the jobs of quite a number of British seamen, will the hon. Gentleman ensure that such a wise policy is continued?
§ Mr. CarmichaelThis has been the policy of British Railways where possible. That is why a general direction would be inappropriate and unnecessary.