asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the increasing tendency of British ocean-going ships to take in oil abroad instead of at home; what are the reasons for this policy; and whether coal bunkering shows any such reaction prejudicial to British interests?

I am glad to inform my hon. Friend that the statistics of bunkering in United Kingdom ports, in respect both of oil and coal, show an increase this year as compared with last year.

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether any condition has been attached to the construction of the new Cunarder requiring the liner to be fuelled in this country?

That is quite another matter.

Mr. BROWN:

As the reply involves a statistical statement, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. SMITH:

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether there is any increase compared with 1931?

Mr. BROWN:

There are four sets of figures. There is a decrease as compared with 1931, but an increase compared with September, 1933.

Following is the statement: