§ MR. J. W. BARCLAY (Forfarshire)asked the Secretary for Scotland, Whether he will, in the Crofters' Bill, or by a separate Bill, provide for the registration of fishing boats in such manner as will enable their owners to give valid mortgages on them?
THE SECRETARY FOR SCOTLAND (Mr. TREVELYAN) (, &c.) HawickThe matter which the hon. Member refers to is one of great moment to the interests of the fishermen, and through them to the country at large; and the Government are carefully considering whether they should not introduce a Bill to apply to the whole of Scotland. With a register of fishing boats, in so many cases of considerable tonnage, giving as good security for a mortgage as small merchant ships, it is time the question should be carefully considered.