§ 42. Mr. STEWARTasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the steamer "Ernaston," of Glasgow, was picked up in the Channel in heavy weather, torpedoed and abandoned, during the winter of 1917 by a small party of Royal Navy and Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve officers and men; that all those engaged in the operation carried it through at risk to their lives, and that the steamer "Ernaston" was eventually repaired at the taxpayers' expense and handed back to her owner at a time when the earning power of such a vessel was very high indeed; and if he will say whether any recognition of the salvage of this steamer under exceptionally gallant circumstances, at a time when shipping was invaluable to the country, has ever been made by the Admiralty in the way of decorations or of salvage money?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe steamship "Ernaston" was salved in November, 1916. No decorations were awarded for this service, but appreciation was expressed by the Admiralty to the officers and men concerned. The "Ernaston" was in Government service, and the salvors were not permitted to claim for their services, on the principle that it was the duty of officers and men of His Majesty's ships to salve an Admiralty collier.
§ Mr. STEWARTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very strong feeling in the Navy that these and other services of a similar nature have not been adequately recompensed?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI do not know whether my hon Friend means as regards decorations or appreciations or in payment for salvage. But both these points will be looked into again.
Sir F. HALLIf the "Ernaston" had been salved by ordinary sailors would 2710 salvage have been payable? If so, why should not the men of the Navy receive salvage in like manner?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThat is precisely the point that my hon. Friend desires to get at. I have said it will be considered.