HC Deb 20 September 1939 vol 351 cc949-50
60. Mr. Robert Gibson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the Government has accepted, or will accept, responsibility for the payment of the sum of over £700 for articles of clothing, apart from gifts from citizens of all sections of the community, supplied on the order of the chief public assistance officer, Greenock, to survivors of the steamship "Athenia" who landed at Grreenock and before they were able to proceed to Glasgow; and if he has any statement to make on the subject?

Mr. Colvilie

I have received information of the expenditure incurred by the town council on the immediate relief of survivors from the steamship "Athenia," and also full particulars of the circumstances which made the expenditure necessary. I am not able at present to make a statement as regards the financial aspects of the matter but they are under consideration. In the meantime, I should like to say how greatly the Government appreciate the willing help given to the survivors by all classes of citizens in Greenock and Glasgow, and the promptitude and thoroughness with which the town council and their officers met the situation.

Mr. Gibson

Will the right hon. Gentleman keep in view the fact that this expenditure was incurred on the suggestion of the Officer Commanding a naval vessel?

Mr. Davidson

Has a request of the local authority for repayment been sent to the Scottish Department?

Mr. Colville

I am in touch with the local authority on the matter.

Mr. Gibson

As things are at present, is not it the case that the officer himself will be personally liable?

Mr. Colville indicated assent.