HC Deb 19 November 1940 vol 365 c1856W
Sir J. Wardlaw-Milne

asked the Minister of Shipping what action he is taking regarding the requisitioning of British ships on the China coast; whether all British ships there are included in the scheme; and will he give the reasons for the exclusion of any vessel?

Mr. Cross

The ocean-going ships of the two British liner companies concerned have been brought within the liner requisition scheme and a number of oceangoing tramp ships suitable for service elsewhere have also been requisitioned. As regards other ocean-going ships registered at ports of British registry in the area, a local requisition and control scheme similar to that of the last war is under discussion with the British authorities in the area.