§ Mr. MORTONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will now take steps to have the Helmsdale (Sutherland) Harbour properly dredged for the safety and use of the fishermen and others?
Mr. BUXTONThe Board of Trade were informed in 1908 that the Duke of Sutherland, who is the responsible harbour authority, had directed some dredging to be done, but I am not aware whether the work was actually carried out, and I am making inquiry in the matter. The Board of Trade have no funds which could be devoted to such an object.
§ Mr. MORTONalso asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware 984W that the Duke of Sutherland has handed over the Helmsdale (Sutherland) Harbour to a private company or firm; and whether, seeing that the harbour was constructed under an Act of Parliament and by the aid of public money, he has taken, or proposes to take, any action in the matter?
Mr. BUXTONAs I informed my hon. Friend on the 22nd October last the Duke of Sutherland in pursuance of his power under Section 32 of the Helmsdale Harbour Order, 1890, has leased the rates to Messrs. Couper and Company, but so far as I am aware he has no power to transfer the entire undertaking. I have no information to show that public money has been contributed to the construction of this harbour, and I see no reason at present to take any action in the matter beyond the inquiry as to dredging to which I have already referred.