§ 3. Lieut.-Colonel MOOREasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the recent increase in the landings of herrings at Ayr; and whether any assistance can be given by his Department towards the setting up of the herring-curing industry in that district?
§ Sir G. COLLINSMy attention has been directed to the recent increase in the landings of herrings at Ayr. The herrings have found a ready sale, mostly for distribution in the home markets, as fresh or kippered herrings. As my hon. and gallant Friend is aware, the markets for cured or pickled herrings are at 171 present restricted but if curing should become economically advisable at Ayr, there is no reason to doubt that the curing trade could make the necessary arrangements on the industrial side without assistance from the Government. Any administrative facilities, however, which the Fishery Board for Scotland can provide within their powers will be gladly given.
§ 6. Sir MURDOCH McKENZIE WOODasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what measures he proposes to take to ensure that the Moray Firth fishermen, who are now preparing for the cod-net fishing, will be able to carry on operations during the coming season without damage to their gear by foreign trawlers?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe Fishery Board for Scotland hope to make arrangements with a view to a scheme of protection for the cod-nets on lines similar to that which was in successful operation last season. The success of the protective measures will be greatly facilitated if the fishermen will co-operate by confining their operations to the selected area and by conforming fully with the requirements as to marking and lighting the nets.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODWill the fishermen be consulted regarding these selected areas in which they have to fish?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe fishermen have already been consulted and are aware of the selected area.