§ 11. Mr. MILNEasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that, as a result of an interdict obtained in the year 1924 by the proprietors of salmon fishings in the upper reaches of the River Forth and its tributaries, the fishermen in the neighbourhood of Kincardine-on-Forth are prohibited from using the species of nets which are essential for white fishing and, in consequence, are deprived of their means of livelihood, many of them now being in receipt of public assistance; and whether he will take steps to secure that the white fishermen shall be enabled to resume their calling?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI am aware of the interdict referred to but I have no information as to whether any of the fishermen concerned are in receipt of public assistance. I have no power to override a decision of the court, and I can only suggest that the fishermen should approach the district board to see whether any concession is possible.
§ Mr. MILNEIn view of the hardship and unemployment which this interdict occasions for so many fishermen, will the right hon. Gentleman explore the possibilities of removing the hardship by legislative action?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe fishermen referred to have their right of appeal to the district board. I am aware that they appealed a few years ago, but, if they appealed again and laid further information before the district board, the present decision might be reversed.