§ 58 and 59. Mr. Dalyellasked the Minister of Transport (1) what consideration he has given to alternative uses for which the "Oxfordshire" and "Nevasa" could be chartered;
(2) if he will make a statement on the negotiations concerning compensation for the former troopships "Oxfordshire" and "Nevasa".
§ Vice-Admiral Hughes HallettNegotiations on the compensation to be paid are still proceedings with the owners. One of the important factors is whether economic employment can be found for the ships and the owners are still looking into this. My right hon. Friend's Ministry has consulted other Departments, but there seems little prospect of finding any other Government use for which these vessels could be chartered without unacceptable cost to the taxpayer.