§ 37. Lieut.-Colonel Heneageasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in view of the restriction on British fishing owing to the war conditions, he will consider opening the Moray Firth, thus putting British fishermen on the same terms as the foreign fishermen?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Captain McEwen)The question whether in present circumstances there should be any modification of the normal restrictions on trawling and certain other methods of fishing on the Scottish coast is at present under consideration. Meantime, I may say that no foreign trawlers are now working in the Moray Firth.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HeneageWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman bear in mind that British trawlers go out in very difficult conditions and at great danger, and that it would be very hard luck on them if this area should be closed to our trawlers?
§ Captain McEwenYes, Sir.
Mr. DavidsonCan the hon. and gallant Gentleman say when we may expect a decision on this question which is under consideration?
§ Captain McEwenNo, Sir. I am afraid that I cannot go beyond the reply which I have given.