§ 37. Mr. Marplesasked the Minister of Transport what has been the percentage increase in British shipping freight rates during the six months ending 31st January, 1948; and how much of this increase was due to the increase in the price of coal.
§ Mr. BarnesThe majority of the controlled deep-sea tramp freight rates were reduced by 5 per cent. in September, 1947, but as from 1st January, 1948, both the controlled deep-sea and short-sea tramp rates were increased by 6 to 7 per cent. This increase took account of various cost factors, but can be attributed mainly to increased coal bunker prices. During the last six months there has been no increase in the controlled rates for deep-sea tankers but the controlled rates for short-sea tankers have been increased by 2 to 5 per cent. on account of higher oil bunker prices.