§ 66. Mr. Mathersasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will reconsider the circumstances connected with the destruction of fishing nets in the Firth of Forth by Mr. E. Mawdsley, South Queensferry, through the fouling of a submerged aero-engine which he brought 1909 ashore after great difficulty, thus clearing away a possible menace to other fishermen; and whether he will now increase his offer of £5 to the £15 required to replace the ruined nets?
§ The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Kingsley Wood)The circumstances giving rise to Mr. Mawdsley's loss have been carefully and sympathetically reconsidered, but no good ground has been seen for increasing the ex-gratia offer previously made to him as a contribution towards the damage he has unfortunately sustained. If, however, the hon. Member has any further information which he could let me have as to the cost of replacing the nets I will look into the question again.
§ Mr. MathersIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this man is unable to meet the cost of replacing the nets and that the nets will cost £15 to replace; and will the Minister undertake to pay that amount if I can produce information proving that £15 will be required for their replacement?
§ Sir K. WoodPerhaps the hon. Gentleman will be willing to see me about it, when I will see what can be done.
§ Mr. McGovernIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that fishing nets are being made in Saughton Prison, Edinburgh, and can he not make a presentation of a set from there?