§ 33. Mr. J. Grimondasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has further considered the objections to the order relating to the return of berried lobsters to the sea; and whether he has devised an alternative scheme for the preservation of stocks.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartI have carefully reconsidered the objections to this Order, but I am satisfied that it is too early to attempt to judge its effect. The answer to the second part of the Question is accordingly in the negative.
§ Mr. GrimondWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the facts were well known last year, and that objection to this Order was taken by every lobster fisherman on the coast, and that alternatives were suggested which. I believe, are the practice in other countries? Will he not look at the matter again to consider a more suitable method than this?
§ Mr. StewartThere were objections on the Order's introduction in May last year, but there have been no subsequent objections of any standing. I suggest to the hon. Gentleman that he should read the book that has just been published by the Department, "Practical Hints for Lobster Fishermen," which really contains the answer to his question.