§ 3. Mr. G. TERRELLasked whether the crews of the British squadron engaged in the battle of the Falkland Islands are entitled to prize bounty under the Naval Prize Act, 1864?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAPrize bounty is only payable when His Majesty has declared his intention to grant it by Order in Council or Proclamation. It is hoped that an Order in Council on the subject will be issued shortly. Under the proposed Order the crews of the vessels mentioned would be entitled to prize bounty.
§ Mr. G. TERRELLMay I ask whether the amount payable to the dependants of men who lose their lives will be paid promptly?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThat involves payment in advance. There are many difficulties in the way. But we have not lost sight of that.
§ Mr. G. TERRELLDo not these difficulties really apply to prize money and not to prize bounty?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThey certainly apply to prize money far more than to prize bounty. I will look into the matter. I hope the hon. Gentleman will not press me for any undertaking to-day.