HC Deb 26 March 1907 vol 171 c1661
MR. J. DEWAR (Inverness)

I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that a conviction under the Salmon Fishing Act of 1844 was recently obtained in the Inverness Sheriff Court against a Fort Augustus angler for fishing in Loch Ness; if he is aware that the public have from time immemorial exercised unchallenged the right of fishing in Loch Ness, which is a navigable loch; and if he will take the necessary steps to ascertain what are the rights of the public in this matter, and, if necessary, to protect them.

MR. SINCLAIR

A conviction was recently given, as stated. I am not aware as to the exercise by the public of the right of salmon fishing in Loch Ness; as far as I am informed it does not appear to differ from other lochs in Scotland in this respect; if my hon. friend desires me to do so, I will make further inquiry upon that point.

MR. J. DEWAR

Will the fishing rights in Loch Ness come within the inquiry to be held into Scottish riparian rights generally?

MR. SINCLAIR

said he could give no definite pledge as to the scope of that inquiry, and he would like notice of questions as to particular fishings.

MR. ANNAN BRYCE (Inverness Burghs)

Will inquiry be made as regards other lochs?

MR. SINCLAIR

I understand the law is the same for all lochs of the same character.