§ 106. Mr. Raikesasked the Minister of Transport why the ss. "Aquitania" was 21W chartered to carry the British Mission to New York; and what will be the estimated cost to public funds.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussThe "Aquitania" has not been specially chartered to carry the United Kingdom Delegation to the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers in New York having been continuously in the service of His Majesty's Government since the early days of the war. The vessel was due for overhaul after her last voyage, but as no other ship with available accommodation was in position to arrive in time for the planned date of the meeting, her lay-up has been deferred for one voyage. After completion of repairs she will return to Government service. Representatives of the United States of America, U.S.S.R. and France will also travel in her to New York, and the opportunity will be taken to reduce the list of those waiting to travel by embarking private passengers on both the outward and return voyages. It is estimated that the earnings of the voyage will cover the cost.