§ MR. STEUARTsaid, he wished to ask the Secretary to the Treasury what measures are contemplated in consequence of a recent decision in the House of Lords, affirming the right of the Crown to Salmon Fishings along the coasts of Scotland; and whether, if such rights are to be used by the Crown, an estimate has been formed of the additional revenue which will be gained?
§ MR. LAINGreplied, that in consequence of the decision referred to by the hon. Gentleman a Circular had been issued by the Commissioners of Woods and Forests calling the attention of the proprietors of certain fishings to it, and proposing that they should recognize the right of the Crown. The Returns to the Circular were by no means complete, and it was consequently impossible at present to form any estimate of the amount of revenue which might be derived from that source. As soon as sufficient evidence had been received to warrant ulterior proceedings, measures would at once be taken to render available for the use of the Crown the revenue which legitimately belonged to it.