§ 53. Major McKENZIE WOODasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury under what principle the Treasury has proceeded in fixing the amount of the proposed remission of debts due to public funds by Scottish fishery harbours as set out in Command Paper 3447; and whether account has been taken of the fact that the financial embarrassment of these harbours is the direct result of the War, which necessitated the steam drifters, the chief source of the harbour revenues, being commandeered for the assistance of the Navy?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Pethick-Lawrence)In recommending the amounts of the proposed remission of debts due to the Development Fund by Scottish fishery harbours, the Development Commissioners proceeded, I understand, on the principle of giving such relief as in their opinion would enable local authorities to meet their remaining liabilities. The effect of the War, as well as of other causes of the financial embarrassment of harbours, was thus taken into account as a reason for granting remissions.
§ Major WOODHow is it that some of them have got no remission at all, although they have suffered very seriously in revenue as a direct result of the War?
§ Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCEIf the hon. and gallant Member reads my answer, I think he will understand the principle upon which the Commissioners proceeded. As far as the Treasury are concerned, we are limited to a certain amount.
§ Mr. BOOTHBYCan the hon. Gentleman say why no remissions have been made of debt due to the Public Works Loans Board, as that debt amounts to by far the largest item owing by Scottish harbours; and is he aware that the proposals of the Government go no distance towards solving the financial difficulties of the Scottish harbours?
§ Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCEIf the hon. Member puts down that question, I will see whether it is possible to give him an answer on the point?