§ 37. Sir D. Robertsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the harbour at Keiss is silted up and that the sea channel and bar is in a similar state, and that craft returning to harbour can only enter at high tide, thus involving danger to fishermen who may be compelled to seek refuge from storms; and if he will have this situation remedied.
§ Mr. WoodburnMy information is that the silting up at this harbour is not such as to interfere seriously with fishing. The harbour is privately owned, and it is for the proprietor to undertake any necessary works.
§ Sir D. RobertsonWill the Secretary of State accept my assurance that the information on which this Question was based was given to me by a deputation of fishermen? Surely, the men who use the harbour are the best judges as to the facts? Can the right hon. Gentleman bring any pressure upon the proprietor who is responsible?
§ Mr. WoodburnAs the hon. Gentleman knows, we have a lot of pressure not to interfere with private enterprise in these matters.
§ Lord John HopeThat is about the silliest remark possible.
§ 38. Sir D. Robertsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the harbour at Brora has become silted-up with sand; that fishing craft can only enter and leave at high tide, and that small coastal vessels which formerly used the port are no longer able to do so; and if he will take steps to have the sand removed and protective groynes erected to prevent a recurrence of silting.
§ Mr. WoodburnI am aware of the silting up at this harbour, but I understand that the few fishing boats based on it are still able to work regularly. The harbour is privately owned, and while this continues it does not qualify for assistance from public funds.