HC Deb 25 November 1952 vol 508 cc236-7
17. Mr. M. MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to strengthen the fleet of fishery protection cruisers in Scotland.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

The fishery protection fleet has been considerably strengthened since the war by the replacement of two old cruisers by modern vessels and the commissioning of an additional cruiser in place of a hired steam drifter. The efficiency of the fleet has also been increased by the installation of radar and echo sounders in a number of these ships. An order has recently been placed for the building of a further new fishery cruiser to replace another of the older vessels.

Mr. MacMillan

While I appreciate that the fleet has been strengthened, and that they are undoubtedly doing their very best to protect our fisheries, is the hon. Gentleman aware that there has been a tendency for our own and foreign vessels to be forced back into British waters especially since the new restrictions in foreign waters off Iceland and Norway, and that the threat has been observed to be growing round the Hebridian waters and up in the north-west? Will he ask the fishery cruisers to do even a little better than their best in future?

Mr. Stewart

I will take notice of the hon. Gentleman's remarks.

Mr. Woodburn

May I ask whether the aeroplane is still working in conjunction with the fishery cruisers, as the difficulty always is to get evidence which convicts these people? May I also ask his Department to consider whether a helicopter would be more efficient in getting within range of the vessels in order to prove the case?

Mr. Stewart

I will gladly take note of the right hon. Gentleman's remarks