HC Deb 06 May 1907 vol 173 cc1353-4
MR. CATHCART WASON (Orkney and Shetland)

I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that certain proprietors in the North of Scotland claim the seaweed as their own particular property; that persons desirous of earning a little by the collection of seaweed and the manufacture of kelp, under arduous conditions and often in the most inclement weather, can only do so by leave, and have to sell at what price the proprietor cares to give: and whether, in view of the above facts, he will cause inquiry to be made as to the conditions under which the seaweed is gathered, burned, and sold as kelp, and if it possible to establish the industry on a more equitable basis.

MR. SINCLAIR

I am taking steps to inform myself upon this matter, and will confer with my hon. friend in a few days time.

MR. BYLES

Is the seaweed growing below high-water mark claimed as private property?

MR. SINCLAIR

I will confer with the hon. Member.

MR. FLAVIN (Kerry, N.)

How much capital have the landlords sunk in this industry?