§ 104. Mr. Wingfield Digbyasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he is aware that the West German Government is discussing proposals to provide 22 million marks for the expansion of the German passenger fleet, in addition to the loans already provided for building and conversion; and whether he will consult the Chancellor of the Exchequer about further taxation concessions to British shipowners to enable them to compete with foreign flags on less unfavourable terms.
§ Mr. WatkinsonI have seen reports of these discussions. As regards the second part of the Question, the Government are aware of the problem and the Chancellor of the Exchequer, by doubling the investment allowance for shipping, has already given substantial assistance to those U.K. shipping companies which desire to modernise and expand their fleets.