HC Deb 09 April 1888 vol 324 cc717-8
MR. A. SUTHERLAND (Sutherland)

asked the Lord Advocate, Whether the attention of the Secretary for Scotland has been called to the wide-spread destitution which prevails in the Highlands consequent on the recent failure of the herring fishery; and, if so, what steps the Government mean to take to meet the requirements of the case?

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

Her Majesty's Government are kept fully informed of the present state of matters in the Highlands. The fishing has been exceptionally good lately, and there has been no cause for the Government to take special action. The Local Authorities, with the aid of private benevolence, are able to deal with any destitution that still exists.