§ Squadron Leader Cooperasked the Minister of Transport what evidence exists of sabotage to certain liners recently heavily damaged in our docks; and what steps are being taken to secure the safety of our ships.
§ Mr. Lennox-Boyd"Empress of Canada" is the only liner which has suffered heavy damage in our docks in recent months. As my hon. and gallant Friend will be aware, I have ordered a preliminary inquiry under the Merchant Shipping Acts into the fire which caused her loss. I have also ordered a preliminary inquiry into the circumstances of the two minor fires which broke out in "Queen Elizabeth" on 28th and 29th January at Southampton. These inquiries are not yet complete. The officers of my Department who are conducting the inquiries are keeping in close touch with the police. I am confident that all who are concerned with the safety of ships in6W our docks are fully alive to their responsibilities, and my hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate that it would not be in the public interest to state exactly what precautions are being taken.