HC Deb 08 August 1905 vol 151 c619
MR. LAMONT (Buteshire)

I beg to ask the Lord-Advocate whether, in view of the injury now annually done to the fishing industry of the West of Scotland by the capture of herrings out of season, the Secretary for Scotland will enforce the Act 28 and 29 Vic. c. 22, Section 2, providing a close time from the 1st day of February to the 31st day of May in each year, between the Point of Ardnamurchan and the Mull of Galloway.

MR. DOBBIE (Ayr Burghs)

Is it not the fact that many of the fishermen think the enforcement of a close time would be ruinous? Will the right hon. Gentleman appoint a Commission to inquire into the matter?

THE LORD-ADVOCATE (Mr. SCOTT DICKSON,) Glasgow, Bridgton

An investigation on the migrations of herrings in the Clyde area is now in process, and in view of this fact, and that there is a considerable diversity of opinion among the fishermen themselves, it is not proposed at present to take the steps suggested by the hon. Member. In reply to the hon. Member for the Ayr Burghs, I have to say I cannot hold out any I hope of a Commission of inquiry.