§ MR. WEIR (Ross and Cromarty)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether, having regard to the fact that numerous steam trawlers were engaged in Loch Roag and other parts around the Island of Lewis, within the three-mile limit, during the 33 days (out of 41) in which the Foxhound was lying at anchor in Stornoway Harbour, he will state how the officer in command ascertained that no trawlers were at work on the other side of the island; and whether the condition of the Foxhound is such that she cannot venture to sea during weather in which trawlers can prosecute their work without difficulty?
THE SECRETARY TO THE ADMIRALTY (Sir U. KAY-SHUTTEEWORTH,) Lancashire, ClitheroeThe officer in command of the Foxhound reported a week ago that the Sheriff Substitute informed him that he had heard nothing of any trawlers being seen about the islands since February 7, and that there was no chance of any coming anywhere near at this time. None were seen on several days when the Foxhound was out. The answer to the second paragraph is in the negative.
§ *MR. WEIRIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that 25 or 30 miles separated the Foxhound at Stornoway from Loch Roag and other places on the opposite side of the island? How could the Commander of the vessel see whether any trawlers were there?