HC Deb 03 March 1920 vol 126 cc417-8
22. Mr. G RATTAN DOYLE

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether any of the prize money due to the officers and men of the Navy has yet been paid out; if he will state why the matter is being so long delayed; and if he can state definitely when the money will be paid?

Dr. MACNAMARA

It has frequently been explained that the policy of pooling the net proceeds of prize and distributing them amongst the Fleet as a whole engaged in the sea operations of the War—instead of to the individual captors in each case as in the past—has rendered it impossible so far to commence distribution.

The last paragraph of the answer which the First Lord gave my hon. Friend on the 37th December last explains that, except for the fact that they have not yet received the money, no one entitled to participate will be prejudiced.

It is anticipated that sufficient advance in respect of the proceeds to accrue to the Prize Fund will have been paid into the fund to enable a substantial distribution on account to commence next month. So far as can be judged at the present time, this will not be the final distribution.

Mr. DOYLE

Who is getting the interest in the meantime?

Dr. MACNAMARA

That is not covered by the answer to which I have referred. I will send my hon. Friend an answer that does cover it.