MR. MACDONALD CAMERON (Wick, &c.)asked the Secretary for Scotland, Whether it is true that the Scotch Fishery officers memorialised the Fishery Board for an increase of pay and travelling allowances in consequence of greatly increased duties; and, if so, whether the Board refused to entertain the said Memorial; whether, in addition, a deputation of fishery officers was received by the Board, and a promise given them that their grievances would receive early attention; and, whether the Fishery Board have taken any steps for the amelioration of the condition of the officers?
§ THE SECRETARY FOR SCOTLAND (Mr. A. J. BALFOUR) (Manchester, E.)It is quite true that the officers mentioned by the hon. Member memorialized the Fishery Board for an increase in their pay and travelling allowances. The Board, after hearing the deputation which waited upon them, went fully into the question, but as regards salaries did not see their way to making any recommendation for the consideration of the Treasury. As regards the travelling allowances, the Board could not recommend that any change he made in the rule laid down by the Treasury that these allowances were not to be productive of profit; but if it can be shown that they are productive of loss to the officers the matter will be reconsidered.