§ Mr. PETOasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that, as regards the loading of timber deck-cargoes on British ships at United States ports, the stanchions supporting the cargo-hatch coamings are unshipped, with the result that the deck cargo is placed on what is practically an unsupported deck; and, if not, whether he will make inquiries with a view to putting a stop to this practice?
Mr. BUXTONThe Board of Trade have no recent official information on the subject to which the hon. Member refers, but I shall be glad to consider any specific cases which he may wish to bring to my notice, with the view of deciding whether any inquiries into the matter can be usefully made.