HC Deb 15 July 1924 vol 176 cc186-7
23. Mr. DICKSON on behalf of

asked the Secretary for Scotland how many applications have been received from fishermen for loans to buy herring nets; to how many have loans been granted, and for what amount; and whether, seeing that those most in need of assistance are being shut off from it owing to the condition of putting up one half the cost, he is prepared to make any modification in his previous proposals?

Mr. ADAMSON

Since the issue of the scheme last month, 15 applications leave been received, nine have been approved, and five are still under consideration. With regard to the last part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to my reply to the question asked on the same point on 24th June by the hon. and gallant Member for Caithness and Sutherland (Sir A. Sinclair).

Mr. DICKSON

Does not the small number of applications received show that the conditions provided are grossly inadequate?

Mr. ADAMSON

It could show the very opposite to the conclusions my hon. Friend has drawn.

Mr. LIVINGSTONE

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the results of this scheme?

Sir A. SINCLAIR

Has not the Secretary for Scotland got information which shows clearly that the construction placed upon the facts by the hon. Gentleman behind him, the Member for Lanark (Mr. Dickson), is the true one?

Mr. ADAMSON

I have not.

Mr. MILLAR

Will the right hon. Gentleman accede to the representations received by him from his Scottish colleagues to make it a workmanlike scheme?