HC Deb 06 February 1940 vol 357 cc17-8
31. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the closing down of the salmon fishing between Grangemouth and Dunmore by the Stirling and District Salmon Fishery Board; and whether he is prepared to take steps to have this fishing reopened in view of the consequent unemployment and hardship and the loss of valuable food?

The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Colville)

I understand that the lease in question was terminated in August last because of alleged breaches in the conditions, including the use of illegal methods of fishing. A petition and complaint of breach of interdict is at present before the Court of Session. I am informed that it is improbable that the act of the lessors will result in any loss of food.

Mr. Woodburn

Would the right hon. Gentleman agree that it is undesirable to interfere with the normal arrangements for fishing in these times when the fishermen cannot find any other way of exercising their calling?

Mr. Colville

The fact is that the methods were not normal; they were illegal, and that is what gave rise to the litigation.

Mr. Woodburn

Does not the law provide for dealing with any illegality without making innocent people suffer by closing down the whole industry?

Mr. Colville

I will look into this case, but it is at present before the Court of Session and I would rather not say any more about it now.