§ MR. WEIRI beg to ask the Lord Advocate, if he will state in what respect the specification, dated 20th March, 1897, has been departed from in the contract for the new fishery cruiser; on what date was the contract signed; and, on what date is the vessel to be delivered to the Fishery Board by the contractors, Messrs. J. Reid and Co.?
MR. GRAHAM MURRAYThe specification was departed from in the matter of length, which has been increased from 110 to 135 feet, to ensure greater seaworthiness; the contract was signed on 22nd December 1807; the vessel will be delivered as soon as possible.