HC Deb 10 February 1913 vol 48 cc459-60
10. Captain CRAIG

asked when the First Commissioner of Works proposes to carry out the necessary improvements to the Royal harbour of Ardglass, county Down, to enable the increasing trade in fish to be handled and to ensure the safety of the boats belonging to the local fishermen?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Masterman)

As the Development Commissioners have not seen their way to make a grant towards improvements at Ardglass Harbour and as harbour improvements are in contemplation at other places on the coast of county Down I should not feel justified at reduplicating expenditure by commencing a large scheme at Ardglass. The funds at the disposal of the Board of Works are responsible for the maintenance of the harbour only and not, for capital works, and, as I have already informed the hon. and gallant Member, he is mistaken in thinking the harbour is in a deteriorated condition.

Captain CRAIG

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that there have been grave complaints that the berthing accommodation alongside the quays is foul, and consequently that it is dangerous for any trawlers to go alongside the quays?

Mr. MASTERMAN

If I have any information as to the maintenance being inadequate. I will certainly see that steps are taken, apart from the question of new works, in connection with the harbour. Perhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman Gentleman will put himself in communication with me outside.

Captain CRAIG

I have been putting myself in communication with the right hon. Gentleman for the past twelve months on the subject, and have not the local authorities been in communication with him, and have not memorials, signed by fishermen in the district, also been sent to him?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I have received no information on that point. I understand that all the applications up to now have been for capital expenditure on improvements, and not for the maintenance of the harbour.

Sir J. LONSDALE

With regard to the improvements to be made at other parts of the coast of Down, are they in the south or the north part of the county?

Mr. MASTERMAN

If the hon. Baronet will give me notice I will give him full information.