§ Mr. Mathersasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is taking any special steps to stop pilfering at the ports from parcels addressed to British prisoners of war and from lifeboat supplies for the succour of shipwrecked mariners as reported at the annual meeting of the Liverpool Steamship Association, a copy of which has been sent to him?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerI regret that pilfering in the ports has increased since the beginning of the war, and that it has included thefts from parcels addressed to British prisoners of war, and from the supplies provided in the lifeboats on ocean-going ships. I agree with the authors of the annual report of the Liverpool Steamship Owners' Association when they say that such theft is as serious as looting. My Noble Friend, and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department, have already taken vigorous steps to ensure that the various authorities of the port shall work closely together to combat this evil. I can assure my hon. Friend that the whole matter is kept constantly under review, and that all such cases as those to which he refers will be closely followed up.