§ MR. MENZIES (Lanarkshire, S.)To ask the Secretary for Scotland if he can state approximately what is the yearly income derived by landed proprietors in the Highlands and in the Lowlands, respectively, from the fishings in the streams, rivers, and lochs of Scotland.
1193 (Answered by Mr. Sinclair.) It is not possible to give, even approximately, a complete answer to my hon. friend, for in many districts it is impossible to separate angling from other sporting values. The assessable rentals of thirty-one river districts in which local fishery boards exist amount to about £117,000.
§ MR. MENZIESTo ask the Secretary for Scotland if, considering the interest and anxiety upon the subject of fishing rights in Scotland, especially in the Lowlands, it is his intention to introduce legislation, and, if so, when, which will clear up the existing state of uncertainty as to the law of Scotland upon this matter, and upon such matters as the powers of riparian proprietors to prohibit fishing for trout in streams and rivers, and the period of continuous free fishing by permission of the proprietor which would give a legal right to the people thereafter to fish without his permission.
(Answered by Mr. Sinclair.) It was stated last session that this subject is not being lost sight of by the Government, but it is not possible for me now to make any statement as to the prospects of legislation.