§ Mr. A. SHORTasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Shipping whether he is aware that a large number of ships in the Port of London and the Bristol Channel are unable to find berths; whether demurrage of £500 to £1,000 per day is being paid; and, if so, as such charges are eventually added to the costs to the consumers, what action, if any, does he propose to take?
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§ Colonel L. WILSONI am aware that a large number of ships are waiting for berths at London and Bristol Channel ports, and I have no doubt that in some cases heavy demurrage charges are being: incurred. Whether these charges ultimately fall on the consumer depends upon the circumstances of the individual cases. The congestion at these and other ports is receiving the constant attention of the Port and Transit Executive Committee, and all practicable steps are being taken to meet the situation.