§ MR. ALEXANDER CROSS (Glasgow, Camlachie)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether the adjustment of the prices for the naval base at Rosyth was negotiated by the Admiralty officials themselves; whether independent valuations were previously obtained, and who were the independent valuators and what were the amounts of these valuations; and whether these valuations recommended the payment by the nation of about £100,000 (and an additional sum for minerals) for 911 acres, which were rented at the time of purchase at the annual sum of £1,288 15s. in the case of the lands purchased from Lord Linlithgow and of similar sums for the smaller purchase from a neighbouring proprietor.
§ MR. EDMUND ROBERTSONI understand that the adjustment of prices was not negotiated by Admiralty officials. Independent valuation was previously obtained, the valuators being Sir Thomas Binnie and Mr. J. Campbell Murray. Lord Linlithgow's property was valued by them at £91,920, exclusive of minerals, and Mr. Newton's property at £20,811, including minerals. The price for the minerals on Lord Linlithgow's estate was settled by arbitration at £12,250. In all cases the prices paid were recommended for acceptance by the 57 independent valuators after considerable negotiation.
§ MR. WATT (Glasgow, College)Were the negotiations for Rosyth initiated before any suggestion was made to the Australian Governments to increase the Marquess of Linlithgow's salary?
§ MR. EDMUND ROBERTSONsaid the matter was one dealt with by the last Government.
§ MR. WEDGWOOD (Newcastle-under- Lyme)In view of the increase in the value of adjoining property owing to the establishment of Rosyth as a naval station, will any endeavour be made to secure any part of that increased value for the State, so as to help pay the large prices—
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! Notice should be given of that Question.