§ Sir G. Broadbridgeasked the Minister of Shipping whether he is aware that at the port of Liverpool the customs authorities insist on pre-entry of all goods, but that the Ministry of Shipping does not allow vessels to remain at their loading berths long enough to take on a full load; and will he take immediate steps to alter the state of things at the port.
§ Mr. CrossThe first part of the Question is a matter for my right hon. Friend the1604W Chancellor of the Exchequer, but I am informed that the practice at Liverpool is the same as at all other ports, that is, goods for which an export licence is not required may be shipped without pre-entry to all British Empire destinations other than Canada and the West Indies. As regards the second part of the Question, it is necessary that ships shall be ready to join their convoys at the proper time, even though occasionally this may involve a ship being instructed to sail before she is fully loaded.