§ 35. Sir A. SINCLAIRasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is prepared to extend the period during which applications may be made by fishermen for Government loans for the replacement of nets and gear; and whether he will arrange that fishermen who have been unsuccessful or only partially successful in their applications for grants from the voluntary fund will be given facilities for applying for Government loans?
Mr. W. ADAMSONAs intimated in the course of the Debate on 6th March, I am anxious to give all reasonable facilities to the fishermen to apply for the loans referred to, and I have decided that the period should be extended. 30th April is in view as the new closing date. The extension of time will, I hope, meet the point raised in the second part of the question.
§ Mr. BOOTHBYHave the Government under consideration any permanent scheme in addition to the present one to provide for these fishermen?
63. Major WOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his inquiries into the question of the destruction by foreign trawlers of cod nets in the Moray Firth have been completed; if so, what is the result of his investigation; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure that in future the local fishermen will be allowed to pursue their legitimate calling without interference from foreigners?
Mr. W. ADAMSONThe investigations made into the damage which occurred during the week-end from 8th to 10th March have been completed. I am communicating the particulars to the Board of Trade for consideration whether any action towards recovery of compensation can usefully be instituted. As regards the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply which I gave him last Tuesday.
§ 66. Mr. MILLARasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of 267 fishery cruisers and other vessels employed in policing the seas round the coasts of Scotland; and whether it is proposed to add to their number?
§ Mr. JOHNSTONEight vessels—two of which are equipped with hydroplanes—are regularly engaged in this service. It is not meantime proposed to add to their number, but another cruiser will shortly be equipped with a hydroplane, subject to the money being voted by Parliament.
§ Mr. MILLARDoes this refer to any of the Admiralty vessels which are involved?
§ Mr. JOHNSTONYes, Sir, they include one Admiralty vessel, His Majesty's Ship "Spey."