asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the charge made against British shipowners of failing to provide for the adequate instruction of youths apprenticed to the sea on board their vessels; and whether he will undertake to inquire into these charges and take such steps as may be necessary to impress upon shipowners their obligations and responsibilities its this matter?

I am aware that attention has been called recently in the Press to the training of apprentices for the sea service. The indenture of apprenticeship is in the nature of a contract, and if its terms are not observed it should be open to the injured parties to take such action as they may be advised. On the information at present before them, the Board of Trade do not think it necessary to intervene in the matter.