§ 50. Sir ROBERT HAMILTONasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the result of the inquiry by the Fishery Board into the situation created by the embargo placed by the British Herring Fishing Association on fishing in Shetland before 16th June; and what steps he proposes to take to protect the interests of Shetland curers and fishermen?
§ Mr. WESTWOODI have to-day received a report from the Fishery Board for Scotland to the effect that after full consideration of all the circumstances, 2196 they are of opinion that the postponement of herring curing until the middle of June is in the best interests of the industry. The Boards report will be immediately considered, but as I have already indicated, any action which I could take would be limited to negotiation with representatives of the industry who, I understand, have already reaffirmed their previous decision.
§ Sir R. HAMILTONIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the great feeling that has been aroused by this combination which has been arrived at by an association outside Shetland, and will he ask his right hon. Friend not to relax his efforts to make a modification of the resolution of the Association?
§ Mr. WESTWOODI am aware of the great feeling referred to by the bon. Member, but I also understand that the local curers in Shetland are not unanimous in desiring an earlier date.
§ Major MCKENZIE WOODDoes the hon. Gentleman propose any steps to stop the local fishermen and curers acting up to their resolution?
§ Mr. WESTWOODWe have no power to act as suggested by the hon. and gallant Gentleman.
§ Major WOODI am not suggesting it; I am only asking if they propose to do it.