§ Mr. E. HARMSWORTHasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions whether the vessels in the Richborough fleet, after bringing over cargoes from France, are returning empty; whether these vessels could be used to assist the export trade of this country, either by export of general goods or of coal; and whether the only reason for the vessels not being used for the export of coal is that the Coal Controller refuses to give his sanction?
Mr. HOPEI understand that large cargoes have been transported to France by the Richborough vessels, but that it is often not possible to wait for export cargoes in view of the demands for space on the French side. With regard to the last part of the question, I am advised that the export of Kent coal has recently received the careful consideration of the Coal Controller, but that owing to the demand for coal inland, permission to export was not given.