HC Deb 05 November 1919 vol 120 cc1470-1
17. Commander Viscount CURZON

asked the First Lord of the. Admiralty when the distribution of naval prize money will be commenced to those entitled?

21. Mr. GRUNDY

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty when the distribution of prize money is to he proceeded with; and whether he cal. state When the other ranks may expect to receive their shares?

25. Mr. HIRST

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in connection with the distribution of prize money, he will consider the possibility of the shares being apportioned according to length of service afloat and irrespective of rank or rating?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. macnamara)

It is anticipated that sufficient funds will have been received from Prize Courts and other sources to enable a distribution to be commenced in the spring. We shall by that time certainly have completed the records of service qualifying to share. I may again add that sums received into the Prize Fund are immediately invested for its benefit, and interest also accrues on the value of vessels and goods requisitioned by the Government, as from the date of requisitioning. The share of officers and men who have died will be payable to their representatives, and in the case of those killed on sea service will be the full shares applicable to their rank or rating calculated as if they had continued on sea service to the date of the Armistice. I am sending to my hon. Friend the Member for the Wentworth Division a copy of the Proclamation dealing with the point raised in his question.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a statement was made on behalf of the Admiralty that distribution would commence in October? Is it certain it will commence in the spring?

Dr. MACNAMARA

We hoped the records would have been completed in the autumn but they are not. They certainly will be in a very short time.

Sir R. THOMAS

Will officers and men of the Mercantile Marine who have rendered meritorious service also be entitled to this?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Not unless they were on Admiralty service. I had better send the hon. Gentleman a copy of the Proclamation, which sets forth in detail those who are qualified.

Sir R. THOMAS

Why exclude the Mercantile Marine?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Without disparaging their service, this is a peculiar and ancient prerogative of the Royal Navy.