§ MR. WEIRI beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland whether, having regard to the fact that the Northern Lights Commissioners have recommended the erection of a lighthouse on the Flannan Islands, and that the Board of Trade have sanctioned the same, he will state if plans and estimates have been prepared; and, if so, the estimated cost; and whether, seeing that the Flannan Islands are a serious danger to vessels trading 1390 between America and Great Britain, a portion of the £51,000 provided in this year's Estimates to the Mercantile Marine Fund will be used in starting the preliminary work during the summer months?
§ MR. BURT (who replied)said: No, Sir; the plans and estimates have not been prepared. As soon as the state of the Mercantile Marine allows it, the erection of the lighthouse will be commenced; but, at present, that fund is not in a condition to bear such outlay.