§ DR. MACGREGORI beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland if he can state the result of the recent visit of H.M.S. Starling to Barra to investigate complaints made by the local fishermen of depredations committed by trawlers within the three-mile limit; and, whether, in the interests of fishermen on the coasts of Barra, Harris, Skye, the Moray and Pentland Firths, what further means, in addition to the existing sea police, of protection is he prepared to supply in the circumstances?
§ MR. J. B. BALFOUR (answering in the absence of Sir G. O. TREVELYAN),said: Following on the representation made by the hon. Member to the Secretary for Scotland last month, H.M.S. Starling, under orders from the Admiralty, proceeded to Barra, but was unable to procure any definite proof of illegal trawling. She is now, it is understood, detailed for duty on the north coast of Skye, in consequence of complaints received from that quarter. I may add that as stated by the Secretary for Scotland in this House on the 21st ultimo, the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty are, in addition to the work done by the vessels placed at the disposal of the Fishery Board, rendering much assistance in despatching cruisers for the protection of the fishing industry.