HC Deb 16 September 1909 vol 10 cc2308-9
Mr. W. WARING

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that a fishing boat sailing in the Moray Firth on 10th September narrowly escaped being struck by a shell from a man-of-war during gun-practice there; whether, in view of the danger of such occurrences, he will cause gun-practice to be deferred until after 20th September, when the fishing fleets will have left for English ports; and whether he will cause greater care to be taken in making known the times when gun-practices take place?

Mr. McKENNA

No report upon the incident referred to has been received by the Admiralty; and an inquiry will be made.

Mr. H. A. WATT

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any compensation is granted when vessels are damaged during gun practice, or whether the Admiralty is entirely free from liability?

Mr. McKENNA

Compensation is certainly granted where it is shown the Admiralty are in fault. I cannot answer the question as to whether the Admiralty are free from liability.