§ 9. Sir I. MACPHERSONasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he proposes to take to put an end to the depredation of trawlers in the winter fishing, ground net, in the sound of Raasay, and inner sound particularly; and if he will take steps at once to procure more and faster fishery cruisers to stop these depredations?
§ Mr. SKELTONEvery possible step is taken to prevent depredation by trawlers in the area referred to. Proceedings have been instituted against a trawler which was reported to be illegally trawling last January, but there is no definite evidence of extensive depredations by trawlers in the area during the past winter. The situation is, however, being closely watched, and the question of improving the patrol will receive consideration before next winter season. Owing to the financial position it has not hitherto been possible to add to the protection 1558 fleet as suggested in the second part of the question.
§ Mr. KIRKWOODIs the hon. Gentleman aware that these trawlers are so fast that the cruiser cannot pick them up; and have the Scottish Office considered the advisability of using an aeroplane in order to chase the trawlers?