Mr. T. Morrisasked the President of the Board of Trade whether transference of British registered merchant vessels is subject to official approval duringthe war; and whether any arrangements exist whereby merchant ships which neutral interests are ready to sell can be acquired by this country?
Major Lloyd GeorgeUnder the Ships and Aircraft (Transfer Restriction) Act, 1939, the sanction of the Board of Trade is required to the transfer from one owner1354W to another of any British ship, other than a Dominion ship. With regard to the second part of the question, the normal commercial channels are available for the purpose referred to.