HC Deb 12 February 1975 vol 886 cc370-1
46. Mr. Monro

asked the Lord Advocate how many official visits he has made to the northern lighthouses; and if he will make a statement.

The Lord Advocate

Since assuming office on 8th March 1974 as a Commissioner of Northern Lighthouses, I have visited three such lighthouses—Dunnet Head on 26th July 1974, and Cape Wrath and Stoer Head (Sutherland) both on 27th July 1974.

Mr. Monro

Is the Lord Advocate aware that the whole House wishes to pay tribute to the lighthouse keepers in northern waters? I am glad that on his visit he did not put the lights out. Is he further aware of the grave concern that the fishery protection vessel "Jura" has been taken over by the Ministry of Defence. Will he assure the House that the "Pharos" will not suffer the same fate, of becoming a river gunboat?

The Lord Advocate

I note what the hon. Gentleman said, but none of these—not even the "Pharos"—are matters, which lie within my ministerial responsibility. I am sure that his remarks will have been noted by the responsible Ministers.