MR. CATHCART WASONI beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland if information was received by H.M.S. "Hebe," lying at Balta Sound, acting for the Scottish Fishery Board, that a trawler was destroying the living of the fishermen towards Northwick, and that the reply was given that the "He be" had not steam up and was consequently useless; and, if so, will he say what action he proposes to take in the matter.
§ THE SECRETARY FOR SCOTLAND (Mr. Sinclair,) ForfarshireH.M.S. "Hebe" has been sent to Balta Sound by the courtesy of the Admiralty mainly to preserve order among the large herring fleet, British and foreign, engaged at that place. To patrol in search of illegal trawling is thus not in her ordinary scope of duty, but in this case her Commander 1182 sent an armed boat in pursuit which, however, was not successful in making a capture. I do not think any action on my part is required.
§ MR. POWER (Waterford, E.)The Admiralty have consistently refused to supply a gunboat for the protection of Irish fisheries. How many are supplied to Scotland?
§ MR. SINCLAIROne vessel and one tender, but notice has now been given that that arrangement must terminate.
§ MR. MITCHELL-THOMSONWhen?
§ MR. SINCLAIRThat has not been decided.