HC Deb 11 November 1937 vol 328 c1870W
Mr. McGovern

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether compensation has been paid to the relatives of the bothy-fire victims who were burned to death at Kirkintilloch; and, if so, what amounts were paid in each case?

Mr. Elliot

I understand that claims for compensation have been made and are at present being considered by the insurance company concerned.

Mr. McGovern

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the age of men, women and boys, respectively, engaged as potato diggers, who were burned to death in the recent bothy-fire at a farm in Kirkintilloch; the hours worked and the wages paid to men, women and boys; and what was the reason why local labour could not be secured?

Mr. Elliot

The 10 victims in this case were all males. Three were 15 years of age, two 16 years of age, and the others were 13, 17, 18, 19 and 24 years of age respectively. I am informed that they worked a 50-hour week of 5½ days. Female workers were paid at the rate of 7d. per hour and male workers from 35s. to 37s. 6d. per week. In addition the workers received free quarters, light and fuel and potatoes, and those staying on the farm received free milk. I regret that the information asked for in the last part of the question is not available.