§ 16. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the work of the fisheries research vessel "Explorer" since her launching, indicating the results of her researches and the nature and extent of her contributions to our knowledge in the spheres of her research.
§ Mr. Henderson Stewart"Explorer" was taken over from the builders on 30th March and began research work at the beginning of May. She will be used mainly to collect information about the stocks of fish, their movement and surroundings, required for the study of conservation and other problems. The collection of information of this kind does not often yield quick results.
§ Mr. HughesHaving regard to the large capital sum spent on this establishment, does the hon. Gentleman realise that it is desirable to make frequent and regular reports on its work to the House? Will he arrange that that should be done?
§ Mr. StewartAs far as it is practicable, but this is necessarily a long-term process and I do not think that the House would be interested in too frequent reports.