§ Mr. W. THORNEasked the President of the Board of Trade if the White Star Line Company have purchased an ex-German steamer, "Columbus," a vessel of 35,000 tons gross, for the service between Southampton and Cherbourg and New York; whether the ship in question was one of the reparation ships; and, if so, what amount of money was paid to the Reparation Committee for the same?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONI understand that negotiations are in progress for the purchase of the "Columbus" by the White Star Line from the Reparation Commission. It is not considered desirable to publish at present the prices paid for individual ships.