asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the difficulty on the present commercial basis for British ships trading with East Africa to run against the German ships which have a very heavy subsidy, while there is no British subsidy; and what he proposes to do to give British shipping a fair chance?

I am aware of the position, but as at present advised I do not see my way to take any action in the matter

Is the right hon Gentleman aware that Sir Owen Phiilips, speaking as chairman of a shipping company, said that it was impossible for his company to run against German ships with a very heavy subsidy, whilst there was no British subsidy?

I am not aware of that statement; perhaps the hon. Member will send me a copy.