HC Deb 02 June 1959 vol 606 cc16-7
24. Mr. Grimond

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what evidence he has regarding the extent to which herring stocks in the North Sea are being reduced by trawling.

Mr. Maclay

The herring stocks are subject to many influences, including the different forms of fishing, and it is not easy to separate the effects of each. This complex problem is being investigated by the scientists of the Fisheries Departments in collaboration with those of other countries who fish in the North Sea; it necessarily involves long-term study and no conclusive results are yet available.

Mr. Grimond

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is widespread anxiety and doubt about the effect of the increased fishing, both on white fish and on herring, and the destruction of spawn? While we know that all these inquiries are going on, may I ask whether they have not been going on for a long time and whether the right hon. Gentleman can give us an interim report on the outlook for fishing in these areas?

Mr. Maclay

I will examine the latter part of that supplementary question, but I would not like to commit myself at this moment.