HC Deb 26 March 1908 vol 186 cc1580-1
MR. CATHCART WASON

I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that the efforts of the Orkney and Shetland Vigilance Association to secure conviction of trawlers engaged in destroying the inshore fisheries have been attended with some measure of success; and if the Government would consider whether the offering of a reward for the conviction of offenders would have a salutary effect.

MR. SINCLAIR

I accept the information given in the earlier part of the Question from my hon. friend. The offer of a reward by the Government for the conviction of offenders is not a course of action which I can see my way to adopt.

SIR GEORGE DOUGHTY

Then are we to understand the Scottish Department admits that there are spies all round the coasts of Scotland?

MR. SINCLAIR

No, Sir.