§ Mr. WASONasked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware of the fact that the herring fishing in North-West Shetland was ruined after whaling operations had been carried on for a short time and, despite the strongest opposition by the fishermen, it is proposed to renew the business this season?
§ Sir W. CHEYNEasked the Secretary for Scotland if he has received a strong protest from Shetland fishermen against the recommencement of whaling operations in Shetland, especially by Norwegian workers; and what decision has been come to on the whole question of whaling?
§ Mr. MUNROI am aware that the herring fishing in North-West Shetland suffered a great decline in the period preceding the War, and that whatever the ultimate cause may have been the decline was coincident with the development of the whaling industry in Shetland. It has been represented to me that preparations are being made for resuming whaling operations this season and that the fishermen are strongly opposed to such resumption. The Fishery Board for Scotland, as the result of an inquiry held with my authority, have recommended that whaling operations in Shetland should no longer be permitted. The Board's recommendation is at present under my consideration.