HC Deb 01 April 1936 vol 310 cc2002-3
65. Mr. GARRO-JONES

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been drawn to the resignation of Mr. Eric W. H. Brander from the Herring Industry Board on the ground of dissatisfaction with the work of the board; when it was discovered by the board that Mr. Brander was ineligible for membership; and whether he will ascertain whether the discovery of Mr. Brander's alleged ineligibility has any connection with Mr. Brander's discontent with the operations of the board?

Sir G. COLLINS

The only communication I have received is a letter from Mr. Brander resigning his membership of the Herring Industry Board, but without giving any reasons. In reply to the second and third parts of the question, I am informed that the question of Mr. Brander's eligibility for continued membership has not been determined by the board, although, in consequence of doubts which had been expressed as to his being duly qualified, the board took the step of obtaining a legal opinion on the question early last month.

Mr. GARRO-JONES

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the alleged cause of disability for membership was a technical one and was capable of immediate rectification, and, that being so, does he not consider it incumbent upon him to make some inquiry as to the real reasons for the resignation of this important member of the board?

Sir G. COLLINS

Mr. Brander resigned, but did not see fit, in his letter of resignation to myself as Minister, to give any reason for his action. As he has resigned, I have therefore no alternative but to accept it.

Mr. GARRO-JONES

Is the right hon. Gentleman content to accept the resignation of an important member of a board which he has set up, and to fold his arms without inquiring, when that member resigns, why he resigns?

Sir G. COLLINS

I have no doubt that if Mr. Brander thought he was unfairly treated or that there was any legal question being determined, rightly or wrongly, he had his natural chances of appealing to the board and for the board to hear his case, if he so desired.