HC Deb 27 May 1930 vol 239 cc986-7
38. Sir R. HAMILTON

asked the Postmaster-General the grounds on which he declined to take independent action to salve His Majesty's mails from the wreck of the "St. Sunniva"?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

The mails were deeply submerged in the forehold of the ship, and cargo was loaded above them. In these circumstances, independent salvage of the mails in advance of any general salvage operations was impracticable, but the local officers of the Department were from the outset instructed to associate with any salvage attempts that might be made. I am informed that expert opinion has throughout regarded the prospects as unfavourable and now that the ship has broken up all question of salvage is definitely abandoned.

Sir R. HAMILTON

While realising that the Postmaster-General instructed the postmaster at this place to co-operate with any other salvor who might attempt to salve the mails, why did the Post Office not take independent action to salve the mails, or attempt to salve them after the underwriters had abandoned the wreck? I am sure that the Postmaster-General is fully aware of the large amount of mail matter involved, and the importance of the question.

Mr. LEES-SMITH

The mails were covered by an enormous amount of cargo, of quite another description, and we found that it was not practical, owing to the weather and the condition of the ship to salve either the cargo or the mails.

Sir R. HAMILTON

Have the Post Office made any independent survey of the wreck, or any independent efforts to salve these mails?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

Certainly. The postmaster himself was out there in a small boat.

Sir R. HAMILTON

I beg to give notice that I shall take an early opportunity of raising this matter on the Motion for the Adjournment of the House, because of the importance of the subject.

Mr. ERNEST BROWN

If these mails were submerged, how is it that the Income Tax demands were found?

Mr. LEES-SMITH

I cannot say.