Shipping Controller facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Shipping Controller of Ministry of Shipping |
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| Appointer | Lloyd George Coalition Government |
| Constituting instrument | New Ministries and Secretaries Act 1916 |
| Formation | 10 December 1916 |
| First holder | Sir Joseph Maclay |
| Final holder | Lord Pirrie |
| Abolished | 1921 |
The Shipping Controller was an important job created in the United Kingdom during World War I. This role was set up in 1916 by the government led by David Lloyd George. Its main goal was to manage and organize all the ships that carried goods.
During the war, Britain needed a lot of supplies, like food, weapons, and raw materials. Many ships were being sunk, making it hard to get these vital items. So, the Shipping Controller was put in charge of making sure supplies kept reaching the country. This job was officially created by a law called the New Ministries and Secretaries Act of 1916.
Contents
Who Were the Shipping Controllers?
This special role was held by two important people during its time. They worked hard to keep Britain supplied during a very difficult period.
Sir Joseph Maclay: The First Controller
The very first person to become the Shipping Controller was Sir Joseph Maclay. He started this job on December 10, 1916. Sir Joseph was a businessman with a lot of experience in shipping. His task was to quickly get control of all merchant ships. This helped make sure essential goods could still reach the UK.
Lord Pirrie: The Second Controller
After Sir Joseph Maclay, Lord Pirrie took over the role of Shipping Controller. He started in 1918. Lord Pirrie also had a strong background in the shipping industry. He continued the important work of managing the country's shipping needs until the job was ended in 1921.
See also
- Minister of Shipping
