§ 14. Sir ROBERT HAMILTONasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware that a fishing boat having been lost owing to striking in the dark the wreck of a block-ship in Weddel Sound, Scapa Flow, the Admiralty has refused to consider the payment of compensation to the owner; whether he is prepared to reconsider that decision; and whether he can state what steps the Admiralty intend to take to guard against such occurrences in the future?
§ Mr. AMMONThe question of liability for any damage which may arise from the presence of the block-ships has already been fully considered, and the Admiralty have been advised that no responsibility can attach to them in the matter of such damage. I regret, therefore, that the Admiralty are unable to reconsider the decision in regard to the alleged loss of the fishing boat.
§ Sir R. HAMILTONIs it the intention of the Admiralty to maintain this blockade of wrecks round the island and not pay compensation to those who suffer damage from them?
§ Mr. AMMONI have answered many questions put by the hon. Member on this subject, and I have pointed out that we are advised that the waterways and the channel are well open and suitable for the navigation of the district.
§ Colonel ASHLEYHave steps been taken to buoy the channel, so as to indicate to fishermen where they can safely go?
§ Sir R. HAMILTONIn view of the unsatisfactory answer, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Motion for the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.