§ 29. Lieut.-Colonel Heneageasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether 1793 steps have yet been taken to open the Moray Firth to British fishermen and trawlers?
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Colville)After careful consideration, I do not feel justified in taking steps to revoke the by-law regarding trawling in the Moray Firth, which has been in force for many years. Under the provisions of that by-law, however, temporary arrangements have, as an emergency measure, been made to permit a limited number of trawlers of the smaller classes to fish in the outer waters of the Firth.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HeneageIs fishing in the Moray Firth open to Scottish fishermen, or is it open to trawlers only?
§ Mr. ColvilleA certain number of English trawlers as well as Scottish trawlers have been allowed to fish in this limited area.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HeneageIs the limitation one of size for trawlers?
§ Mr. ColvilleYes, Sir. Under the by-law it is possible to give certain permits, and it has been thought wise to limit the size in order to preserve the breeding stocks.
§ Commander Sir Archibald SouthbyIs it closed to foreign trawlers?