BRITISH SHIPPING.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVII, Issue 8065, 22 March 1906, Page 2

BRITISH SHIPPING.

' PROTECTION FROM FOREIGN 1 COMPETITION. > AN IMPORTANT MEASURE. | INTRODUCED IN THE COMMONS. Received 21, 10.15 p.m. , ■. 1 London, March 21. lu the House of Commons the Bill introduced by Mr Lloyd-George, President of the Board of Trade, amending > the Shipping Acts, was" read a lirst 1 time. The measure, which was very favorably received, applies the British regulation respecting over-loading, unseaworthiness, stowage of grain, and tho use of life saving appliances, to foreign ships. Lloyd-George admitted that British ship ownors were subjected to grossly unfair foreign competition, lie slated the Mercantile Marine included one hundred aiul seventy six thousand Britons, thirty niuc thousand Aliens, anil forty one thousand Lascars. If the engagement of foreign seamen were prohibited,there was risk of ruining the industry' lie described the Las--cars as very intelligent, sober and courageous, hereditary seamen, and British subjects who, bciAg deprived by us of their coastal trade, claimed a place in our Mercantile Marine. He intended to insist on foreigners satisfying the Board of Trade that they understood English words of command. He wished also to enforce a minimum standard of food, the employment of certificated cooks, inspection of provisions, und the appointment of advisory ( committees to assist the Department in I preparing regulations. I