asked the Minister of Transport what representations he has received about his proposal to establish a National Maritime Board.

In view of the manifold problems with which the shipping and shipbuilding industries are faced, I regard it as my duty to consider in detail with both industries as well as with the ports industry any possible ways in which consultation and co-ordination could be improved and the solution or easing of these problems could be advanced. I have had and will continue to have ideas on these subjects which I will wish to discuss in detail and in confidence with the industries concerned. It would not assist the solution of these problems if I was expected to comment at each stage on the progress of these confidential discussions.