HC Deb 21 June 1949 vol 466 c11W
78. Mr. Platts-Mills

asked the Minister of Transport what fall in earnings by shipping lines it is estimated will result from the recent decision of the Marshall Plan authorities that 50 per cent. of all goods allocated under that scheme must in future be transported in United States ships.

Mr. Callaghan

The earnings of British shipping in world-wide trade depend on many different factors, and it is not possible to estimate the effect of the new shipping provisions of the United States Economic Co-operation Act. The Act will involve payment of dollar freights on American vessels which we would not otherwise need—though this may be offset by increased earnings of British shipping elsewhere.