HC Deb 12 July 1888 vol 328 cc1077-8
MR. MARJORIBANKS (Berwickshire)

asked the Lord Advocate, Whether the recently proposed bye-law of the Scotch Fishery Board, in reference to trawling in the Firth of Clyde, was drawn up by the Board as a whole, or only by a Committee of the Board; whether it was submitted to, and had the assent of, the three Sheriffs who have seats on the Board; and, whether, if it proceeded from a Committee only of the Board, he will state the names of those members of the Board who acted as that Committee?

THE LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. J. H. A. MACDONALD) (Edinburgh and St. Andrew's Universities)

The bye-law in question has been laid before the Secretary for Scotland by the Fishery Board, and that Board is responsible for it. I cannot undertake to give details as to the procedure of the Board by Committees or otherwise. If any irregularity is alleged to have been committed by the Board, and a responsible representation is made to that effect, the matter will be inquired into.

MR. MARJORIBANKS

Had it the assent of the three Sheriffs?

MR. J. H. A. MACDONALD

I cannot answer the Question.

MR. MARJORIBANKS

Is it the fact that the three Sheriffs were absent at the time?

MR. J. H. A. MACDONALD

I think it is extremely unlikely.

MR. ANDERSON (Elgin and Nairn)

When will the Report of the Fishery Board be issued?

MR. J. H. A. MACDONALD

I cannot answer off-hand.