HC Deb 13 February 1908 vol 184 cc216-8
CAPTAIN WARING (Banffshire)

I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland whether the trawlers detected in the Moray Firth, known to be British-owned though flying a foreign flag, have been registered in foreign countries for the purpose of attempting to evade the Scottish Fishery Regulations; and, if so, whether it is his intention to take steps to prevent the evasion of the Scottish laws in this manner.

MR. SINCLAIR

Certain trawlers British-owned have been registered in foreign countries and have subsequently trawled in the Moray Firth contrary to Scottish Fishery Regulations. My hon. friend can form his own opinions of the intention which prompted this registration. I am taking every step in my power to bring offenders to justice.

MR. SUTHERLAND (Elgin Burghs)

I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland whether he has any official information showing that many of the trawlers now reported to be at work within the Moray Firth under a foreign flag are mainly owned by British capital and managed by British subjects; and whether he is taking steps to vindicate the law.

MR. SINCLAIR

I am satisfied from the information at my disposal that the facts are as stated by my hon. friend. I am taking every step in my power to bring all British subjects who are implicated in illegal fishing to justice.

MR. PIRIE (Aberdeen, N.)

Did not the right hon. Gentleman say last year every "possible" step had been taken, and were not the results absolutely nil? Is it possible to do more than take every possible step?

MR. SUTHERLAND

How many prosecutions are pending?

MR. SINCLAIR,

asked for notice of the Question.

MR. PIRIE

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer my Question?

MR. SINCLAIR

Such steps as are in the power of the Government are being taken to bring the offenders to justice.

MR. WATT (Glasgow, College)

What are the steps that have been taken?

MR. SINCLAIR

I cannot state them in the limits of an Answer to a Question.

MR. PIRIE

If the steps already taken are found to be insufficient, will the Government obtain further powers?

MR. SINCLAIR

My hon. friend may be assured that the Government will do all in their power to bring the offenders to justice.