HC Deb 22 November 1961 vol 649 cc134-5W
65. Mr. P. Williams

asked the Minister of Transport how much new British shipping tonnage he expects to be ordered during 1961 and 1962.

Mr. Marples

About 750,000 gross tons of shipping for United Kingdom registry were ordered during the first nine months of 1961. I cannot forecast how many orders are likely to be placed in future months, since this is essentially a matter for the commercial judgment of shipowners.