HC Deb 20 May 1924 vol 173 cc1993-4
37. Mr. DUNCAN MILLAR

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is now in a position to make a statement as to the provision of nets and fishing gear for the Scottish drift-net fishermen; and, if so, whether he can also state when his proposals will come into operation?

38. Major Sir A. SINCLAIR

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is yet in a position to make an announcement with regard to his scheme for assistance to fishermen in the replacement of lost and damaged gear?

Mr. JAMES STEWART (Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Health, Scotland)

My right hon. Friend is not yet in a position to announce any decision.

Mr. MACPHERSON

Is not the hon. Gentleman aware that his right hon. Friend and colleague the Secretary for Scotland promised this House before the Recess that he would give this question his immediate consideration, and that the House was led to believe that we should have had an answer to this question a week ago?

Mr. STEWART

All that I can say is that the Secretary for Scotland is in communication with other authorities, trying to get this matter dealt with.

Mr. MILLAR

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the extreme urgency of this question, as summer fishing has now commenced, and that unless provision is made to meet the case of these men now, it will be too late, and will the hon. Gentleman indicate the exact date when he will be able to make a statement?

Mr. LUMLEY

How is it that relief for the Albanians is so urgent, and no action is taken by the Government for the relief of these poor fishermen in Scotland?

Mr. PRINGLE

Is it not more urgent for the Secretary for Scotland to be at the General Assembly than to have this settled?

Mr. STEWART

No, the Secretary for Scotland is attending to Scottish business, far from the General Assembly.

Captain WEDGWOOD BENN

May I ask whether what was understood to be a promise from the Secretary for Scotland that this question should be answered this week will be adhered to?

Mr. STEWART

Yes, but I dare say it sometimes happens in this House that promises are made in excellent good faith, but circumstances prevent these promises being fulfilled.