§ MR. WEIRI beg to ask the Lord Advocate, in view of the loss sustained by the fishermen of Avoch, Ross-shire, in consequence of the unsatisfactory condition of the harbour, will the Fishery Board take steps to procure an estimate of the cost of placing the harbour in a state of repair approximating to its original design.
*MR. A. GRAHAM MURRAYI am informed by the Fishery Board that the only application for aid received by them is one for improving the existing harbour, and the cost involved, as estimated by a reliable engineer, is £2,860.
§ MR. WEIRI beg to ask the Lord Advocate, having regard to the fact that the Fishery Board negotiated with the parish minister of Avoch, Ross-shire, relative to Avoch Harbour, will he say whether the minister acted on his own behalf; and if not, will he say on whose behalf he acted; and will he state the nature of the negotiations, and at what stage they had arrived when they were arrested.
*MR. A. GRAHAM MURRAYI am informed by the Fishery Board that, so far as they are aware, the parish minister of Avoch was acting on behalf of the fishermen of the locality and of Mr. Fletcher, of Rosehaugh. The negotiations consisted of discussing plans and estimates, and of applying for a grant towards a scheme adopted by the applicants, involving an expenditure of £2,860, towards which Mr. Fletcher generously promised to advance one-fourth. The negotiations are, I believe, awaiting the return of Mr. Fletcher to this country.