§ 71. Mr. HENDERSON STEWARTasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the recent case before the sheriff court at Cupar, where evidence was given of a sharp conflict which took place on 14th July, off Kincraig Point, in the Firth of Forth, between Cockenzie and Pittenweem fishing boats; whether he is aware that this is one of many similar incidents which have taken place in the last year; and whether he will introduce more effective measures to prevent illegal fishing off the Fife coast and the possibility of further incidents?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEThe reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. So far as I am aware, there have not been many similar incidents in the last year, and no complaints of illegal fishing in the Firth of Forth have reached the Fishery Board since January last. The new fishery cruiser "Fidra" which was put into commission in February last, has, according to my information, been successful in checking illegal fishing and conflicts between fishermen in this area and the present measures appear to be adequate.
Mr. STEWARTIs it not the fact that the state of affairs described in the question is certainly not exceptional?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEAs I have said, since the cruiser "Fidra" came on duty, the trouble seems to be virtually at an end.
§ Captain McEWENWill not the most effectual measure of protection be the use of the by-law which is at present awaiting confirmation?
72. Mr. STEWARTasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether in considering any possible extension of the seine-net fishing area in the Firth of Forth, he will bear in mind the many conflicts which are now occurring between poaching craft domiciled on the South side of the Firth of Forth and fishing boats operating legally off the North coast; and whether he is aware that, in the opinion of the great majority of fishermen operating in the Firth of Forth, any 2217 extension of the area in question will lead to further illegal fishing and consequent serious conflicts between the fishermen?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEIn considering the by-law which the Fishery Board for Scotland have made and submitted for confirmation, my right hon. Friend will take into account all relevant considerations which may be put before him for and against confirmation.
Mr. STEWARTWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman remember in that connection that the line fishermen on both sides of the Firth of Forth are unanimously opposed to this proposed extension of the area?
§ Captain McEWENWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman also remember the proportion of line fishermen on the one side and on the other?
§ Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCEAs there is a conflict between the two methods of fishing, will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman take into account that the most up-to-date method must in the end prevail?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEMy right hon. Friend will bear those points in mind.