HC Deb 08 May 1905 vol 145 cc1134-5
MR. LEVESON-GOWER (Sutherland)

I beg to ask the Lord-Advocate whether he is aware that Peter Thueson, of Grimsby, was cited to appear for trial at Dornoch Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 2nd inst., for trawling within the three mile limit off Loth, on the east coast of Sutherland on April 12th, and that, on accused appearing for trial, the sheriff, in respect that no evidence was produced in support of the complaint, dismissed the accused; and if he will explain the reason why the evidence for the prosecution was not forthcoming at the trial.

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

The Answer to the first part of the hon. Member's Question is in the affirmative. I am informed that, according to usual practice, the Procurator Fiscal arranged for the attendance of the Crown witnesses at the hour fixed for the trial. These witnesses, who were coming from Cromarty, were advised that they would reach Dornoch earlier if they travelled by the Meikle Ferry instead of going round by the railway. Unfortunately they were detained at the ferry, with the result that they did not arrive in Court until after the Sheriff Substitute had dismissed the complaint.

MR. CATHCART WASON (Orkney and Shetland)

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman make a more liberal allowance for these fishermen than in ordinary cases, seeing that they can only give evidence at great cost?

MR. SCOTT DICKSON

I am afraid I cannot make any exception.