asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he is now in a position to make a statement with regard to the payment of war prize money to naval personnel.

Mr. Duģdale:

The question of prize money has, as I have stated on previous occasions, involved a considerable amount of discussion not only with other Departments but also with other members of the Commonwealth. I hope, however, to be in a position to make a statement shortly.

Can my hon. Friend give some indication when that statement is likely to be made, and can he, in order to remove the doubts which exist, guarantee that these payments will be made to the personnel entitled to receive them?

Mr. Duģdale:

I think I can safely say, without committing myself exactly, that the statement will be made within two or three weeks. With regard to the second part of the Question, I would prefer to await the statement.