HC Deb 15 June 1894 vol 25 cc1219-21
SIR L. LYELL

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether the Niger gunboat, lately appointed to protect the fisheries in Shetland, is about to be replaced by the Cockchafer, which has insufficient speed to prevent illegal trawling?

*SIR U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTH

While the Niger is in dock the Cockchafer takes her place. Though she can only steam at a moderate speed, she is considered efficient for the purpose of thus temporarily protecting the fisheries. Vessels of her class have long performed similar duties.

MR. BUCHANAN (Aberdeenshire, E.)

What is the average speed of the Cockchafer?

*SIR U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTH

I have said that it is only a moderate speed.

MR. BUCHANAN

This is practically a matter of "sea police." When changes of this kind are made, is no communication held with the Scotch Office in regard to them?

*SIR U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTH

There is frequent communication, but this surely is a matter which had better be left to Naval Lords of the Admiralty?

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