§ 73. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can now say when the naval prize money will be distributed; whether the expenses connected with the distribution will come out of the prize money funds; and, if so, what is the estimate of these expenses?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI explained to my hon. Friend on the 5th March last that no distribution can be made until the records of individual service, which will determine eligibility and the amount to be received, are complete; and until the Courts and the Tribunal have finished their labours. All concerned are making every effort to complete their work. As the cost of distribution will not be a charge against prize money, the third part of the question does not arise.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIn view of the fact that many naval officers have been very hard hit financially, will the right hon. Gentleman consider the payment of something on account?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI have been questioned on that many times by hon. Members. It is very difficult indeed. The answer of the 5th March, to which I referred, concluded with these words,
I should now add that if that by that time—that is, when all our work on the records of service is completed—the Courts and the tribunal have not finished their labours, our records being then complete, it will be a question for the serious consideration of the Board whether in that case an ad interim, payment ought not then to be made