§ LORD STONHAMMy Lords, I beg to ask the second Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper:
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government what action they are taking in respect of the resolution addressed to them by the British Chamber of Shipping, referring to the growing competition from fleets supported by discriminatory practices and excessive subsidies which are increasingly damaging to British shipping and harmful to international trade.]
THE EARL OF GOSFORDMy Lords, my right honourable friend the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation has discussed the matters mentioned in this resolution with the General Council of British Shipping. There can be no single or easy solution, but in consultation with the General Council Her Majesty's Government are taking such steps as are open to them.
§ LORD STONHAMMy Lords, I am most grateful to the noble Earl for that reply. Does he think it possible, however, to suggest to the Prime Minister that when he visits President Eisenhower shortly he might urge him to agree that the United States should participate in a review of international shipping policy, with the object of establishing fair competitive conditions throughout the world?
THE EARL OF GOSFORDMy Lords, I will certainly bring the noble Lord's remarks to the attention of my right honourable friend. I might mention that we hope that representatives of several European countries, including ourselves, will be discussing these matters with the United States Administration in the near future.