§ Mr. WEIRasked whether the result of the North Sea fisheries investigations had enabled the Government to form an opinion as to the injurious effects of trawling on inshore fishing beds; and, if so, would the Secretary for Scotland consider the expediency of recommending the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to call a conference of European Powers interested, for the purpose of determining what waters should be entirely closed against trawlers?
§ Mr. URENo special report has been received from the International Council on the effects of trawling in inshore waters, but the Government adheres to the policy of closing those waters to trawlers. While hoping that the present investigations will lead to international agreement my Noble Friend does not consider the present moment opportune for suggesting a new conference.