asked the President of the Board of Trade what sums have been allocated to shipbuilding and ship-repairing industries in each of the past five years by loans or grants; if he will give details of such sums; and what public control there is in the spending of these moneys.

No public funds have been allocated to the shipbuilding or ship-repairing industries as distinct from assistance for individual firms or organisations within these industries.

Does not my hon. Friend believe that where money is likely to be invested in future we should have adequate control over that spending, particularly in those areas of the shipbuilding industry which are showing signs of failing the nation?

Generally speaking, yes, Sir.