§ 33. Sir MURDOCH McKENZIE WOODasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has recently approved a new scheme of administration for the Royal Seamen's Pension Fund; if so, whether he consulted anyone representing the interests concerned as to the expediency and fairness of the changes proposed?
§ Dr. BURGINThe answer to both parts of the question is in the affirmative.
§ Sir M. WOODWill the hon. Member say who was sent as representative of the Scottish fishermen?
§ Dr. BURGINThe governing body which prepared the scheme includes a representative of the fishermen. The scheme was drafted by the Board of Trade, through the Ministry of Agriculture and the Scottish Office.
§ Sir M. WOODDid the representative of the fishermen represent the Scottish fishermen, and has he any knowledge or connection with the fishermen?
§ Dr. BURGINThe Scottish Office consulted the Scottish Fishery Board which includes the Scottish fishing industry.
§ Sir M. WOODIs the hon. Member aware that Members of Parliament asked for a copy of the draft Agreement before it was confirmed and were unable to get it? Can he give any reason why they were refused an opportunity of seeing that document?
§ Dr. BURGINI must have notice of that question.
§ Sir M. WOODWill the hon. Member send me a copy of the Agreement now?
§ Dr. BURGINI will make inquiries.