HC Deb 23 July 1924 vol 176 cc1311-2
8. Commander BELLAIRS on behalf of

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been drawn to the experience of the Aberdeen trawler "Rosetta" in Altona harbour; whether he is aware that members of the crew were fined for swimming in the harbour, while German seamen were unmolested while doing the same thing; and whether he has any statement to make?

Mr. PONSONBY

I am informed that three members of the crew of the steam trawler "Rosetta," were fined the sum of 10 marks each for bathing in Altona harbour on the 27th ultimo. I understand that a German sailor from a neighbouring vessel was bathing at the same time, but left the water as soon as the police boat appeared. It is not certain whether the German police saw this German sailor. Although the German authorities appear to have been within their legal rights in taking the action reported, His Majesty's Consul-General at Hamburg has been instructed to make inquiries into the case and to point out that any infraction of the local regulations was committed through ignorance.

Mr. SIMPSON

Was the fine in gold marks or paper marks?

Mr. PONSONBY

I should require notice.