§ 24. Mr. Dodsworthasked the Secretary of State for Trade how many ships have moved from British flag registration in the last four years.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisDuring the period 1975 to 1978 inclusive 760 vessels were removed from the United Kingdom register. After taking into account 314 additions, the net loss was 446.
§ Mr. DodsworthThat reflects the restriction of and contraction in world shipping trade and registrations but does the hon. Gentleman accept that a number of companies are concerned about potential restrictions on their right to transfer ships abroad? Has he had the opportunity of examining the correspondence from Sea Containers Incorporated, which has 21 ships registered in this country and which says that it will no longer register ships here if any restrictions are introduced?
§ Mr. DavisIt is not right that the hon. Gentleman should use a certain line of correspondence to try to deflect the Government from what is obviously a sensible policy in clause 31 of the Merchant Shipping Bill, in respect of which the Tories were soundly defeated.