§ MR. MORTONI beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that the sheriff, in giving judgment against a trawler at Campbeltown, Argyllshire, last summer, stated that the penalties should be increased so as to compel those law breakers to obey the law as to illegal trawling; whether he is also aware that the sheriff stated there should be faster police boats; under those circumstances, what steps does he propose to take to strengthen the law in accordance with the view of the sheriff; and will he assist to pass the Sea Fisheries Regulation (Scotland) Bill instead of opposing it.
§ MR. SINCLAIRI have no information other than that furnished by my hon. friend on the matters referred to in the earlier part of my hon. friend's Question. With regard to the Sea Fisheries Regulation Bill I can add nothing to my reply of 19th instant.
§ MR. MORTONHas the right hon. Gentleman seen the judgment of the sheriff of Campbeltown?
§ MR. SINCLAIRYes, Sir.
§ MR. YOUNGERIs it not possible to make closer inquiry in view of the fact that the fines now inflicted are found not to be deterrent in the least degree.
§ MR. SINCLAIRIf the hon. Gentleman will put down a specific Question I shall be happy to make inquiry.