HC Deb 10 April 1968 vol 762 c1365
35. Mr. W. H. K. Baker

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will define the duties of the Scottish Fishery Protection Squadron.

Mr. Buchan

My Department's eight fishery protection vessels are employed primarily to enforce the law relating to methods of sea fishing in coastal waters around Scotland. In addition their duties include ensuring that foreign fishing vessels observe British fishery limits; rendering assistance generally to fishing vessels: and enforcing a variety of regulations, including those prescribing minimum sizes of mesh of fishing nets.

Mr. Baker

Has the hon. Gentleman or his right hon. Friend considered the idea of employing a squadron of hovercraft for this work? If so, when is it likely?

Mr. Buchan

As the hon. Gentleman may know, we have established a committee which is investigating the whole problem of regulation and protection around our coastal waters. I met some of the committee members last week and I know that they are pursuing their inquiries diligently.

Mr. Hector Hughes

I congratulate the Fishery Protection Squadron on its excellent service up to the present, but does the Minister realise that it needs to be increased and also needs an additional air arm?

Mr. Buchan

As I thought I said earlier, the committee is looking at all appropriate matters concerned with increasing the squadron's strength.