§ 38. Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH-COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he could now make a statement regarding the new scheme of poundage promised by the Government as a consequence of the abolition of prize money?
§ 43. Lord CHARLES BERESFORDasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the question of prize money for the Navy still remains in abeyance; whether the Fleet have received any benefit up to date for the large amount of enemy's shipping (nearly 100,000 tons) 232 which has been accounted for; and, if not, whether he will make some communication to the House on this question?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI will, if I may, answer this question and No. 43 standing in the name of the Noble Lord the Member for Portsmouth together. The question of prize money has been receiving close consideration since the outbreak of hostilities, and certain conclusions as to the basis of distribution have been taken by the Board of Admiralty. But the hon. Member will recognise that under modern conditions the subject is more complicated than it has been in the past. I need scarcely assure the hon. Member that the whole matter continues to receive the closest attention of the Government. The question of making periodic advances to the Fleet has been discussed from time to time, but there are very great difficulties in the way, and I am afraid that I can hold out no hope that such ad interim distributions will be possible.
§ Lord C. BERESFORDWill there be no distribution of prize money until the War is over?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI think that may be so. There are great difficulties in the way. I would like to consult my advisers on the matter.