HC Deb 24 March 1925 vol 182 cc244-5
73. Major Sir ARCHIBALD SINCLAIR

asked the Secretary for Scotland how much of the money voted by Parliament last year to grant loans to fishermen, in order to enable them to replace their lost and damaged gear, has now been expended; and whether it is proposed to devote the balance to other objects for the benefit of the fishing industry?

Sir J. GILMOUR

The amount of the loans so far sanctioned under the Net Loans Scheme is £5,086, of which amount £2,793 has actually been paid. The sum included in the Fishery Board's Vote was provided for the specific purpose of making loans for the purchase of drift nets and the unexpended balance is not available for other purposes.

Sir A. SINCLAIR

Is this money not available for purposes connected with the fishing industry? Was it not designed for that purpose? I would like to know if it is going to be used for the purpose for which it was voted by the last Parliament?

Mr. BOOTHBY

In view of the fact that the recent loan has been quite ineffective for this purpose, will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of issuing a new loan for this purpose?

Commander WILLIAMS

If Scotland has an excess of money for this purpose, will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of devoting some of it to the English fishing industry?

Sir J. GILMOUR

This is a case in which there is a certain sum of money voted for one purpose, and it cannot be allocated to any other purpose. It must revert to the Treasury if not used.

Mr. LIVINGSTONE

In view of the figures which have been given by the Minister, may I ask if he is aware that this scheme has been a great failure and has not fulfilled the purposes intended, and is he aware that the fishermen are in great want and must have some assistance?

Mr. MAXTON

Before the Secretary for Scotland replies, I would like him to make it quite plain that this money was voted last year by Parliament for the specific purpose of providing drift nets and not for general distress purposes amongst the fishermen?

Sir J. GILMOUR

This money was voted by Parliament for the purpose of loans to fishermen to enable them to procure nets under certain circumstances, and it has been so used.

Mr. MAXTON

And other equipment.