§ Sir R. Glynasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that the occupation of berths in the Royal Albert Dock, and other docks in the United Kingdom, by the refrigerated food ships chartered by the Ministry of Food as storehouses is holding up the loading and discharging of ships engaged in the export trade of important cargoes; and by what authority these ships are berthed for considerable periods to the detriment of normal trade.
§ Mr. BarnesOnly two refrigerated ships being used for the storage of meat, both in the Royal Albert Dock, are occupying loading and discharging berths. Nine other ships are in use for the same purpose but are not occupying loading and discharging berths. Berthing is a matter for the Port Authority whose responsibility it is, in consultation with owners and charterers, to facilitate the rapid turnround of ships.