HC Deb 22 April 1958 vol 586 cc762-3
28. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that foreign trawlers on or about 16th April off Aberdeen fouled the nets of British trawlers, thereby inflicting loss and damage on their nets and otherwise; if he will investigate this occurrence and state the names and nationality of the ships involved and the extent of the damage; and what steps he intends to take in the matter.

Lord John Hope

Damage to gear has been reported by several British vessels fishing on the Viking Bank, some 240 miles north-east of Aberdeen where a considerable fleet of boats of several nationalities is working. The Fishery Protection Vessel, H.M.S. Belton", was dispatched to the area on 16th April to investigate. The reports so far received do not establish the cause of the damage or the identity of any vessels responsible and further reports are awaited.

Mr. Hughes

Does the Joint Under-Secretary realise that I asked what nationalities were involved and that he has not answered that Question? Does he realise that this is not the first time that incidents of this kind have occurred? He seemed to indicate that these foreigners are not experts in North Sea fishing or in the use of nets. Will he seek an international agreement whereby these foreigners may take lessons in the use of nets from Aberdeen fishermen?

Lord John Hope

The last part of the supplementary question is a different question. The reason I did not say what nationality was involved was that I do not know. We do not yet know what nationalities among fishermen were involved.

Mr. Edward Evans

Is the noble Lord aware that among these vessels were several Lowestoft drifters with long, expensive nets? When the identity of the culprits is established, will he press strongly that the owners should be compensated to meet the very heavy losses they have sustained?

Lord John Hope

Certainly, if and when evidence of identity is produced, compensation will be considered by my right hon. Friend and the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.