HC Deb 23 January 1930 vol 234 cc351-2W
Mr. MILLAR

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the principle upon which the Scottish Fishermen's Relief Fund is to be distributed, and the powers and duties of the central and local committees appointed to administer the fund?

Mr. W. ADAMSON

The central committee for the administration of the relief fund has decided that grants shall be made therefrom to Scottish fishermenpro rata to the actual losses of fishing gear incurred by them during the storm in East Anglian waters on 11th November, and these grants are to be applied by the recipients in the purchase of fishing gear. The central committee will be responsible for the administration of the fund. The local committees will advise the central committee on the applications received for grants.

Mr. MILLAR

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the conditions applicable to loans made to fishermen from the loan fund which has been provided for replacement of nets und gear lost during the gale on 11th November, 1929; and whether, in view of the inadequacy of the sum of £50,000 provided for that purpose and of the need for replacement of nets and gear lost at sea on other occasions than on 11th November last, he will consider as to providing loans at a low rate of interest to all fishermen who are at present unable to replace their lost and damaged gear?

Mr. ADAMSON

I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the replies which I gave to questions on this subject on Tuesday. I see no reason to suppose that the loan fund of £50,000 will be insufficient for the purpose for which it is to be provided.