HC Deb 19 June 1928 vol 218 c1576
11. Sir A. SINCLAIR

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many foreign trawlers were observed working in the Moray Firth during the years 1926–27 and 1927–28; on how many separate occasions these trawlers were observed; and how many trawlers were observed working in the Moray Firth during the first four months of the year 1928, and on how many separate occasions?

The LORD ADVOCATE

In the year 1926–27 (October to October) 13 foreign trawlers were observed working in the Moray Firth on 55 occasions; in the year 1927–28 26 foreign trawlers were observed working in the Firth on 99 occasions; and during the first four months of 1928 24 foreign trawlers were observed working on 90 occasions.

Sir A. SINCLAIR

Is it not apparent that the situation is getting worse in the Moray Firth, and will the right hon. and learned Gentleman say what steps the Government are going to take to protect the industry?

The LORD ADVOCATE

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Member will put down a question on that point.

Mr. GROTRIAN

In that case, will the Lord Advocate put in a plea for British trawlers working in the Moray Firth?