§ Mr. MOLTENOasked the Lord Advocate whether his attention has been directed to the remarks of Mr. Sheriff Campion at Dumfries, on 13th July, in the trial of a test case against certain fishermen, when he said that it was a great pity they had these periodical cases, both in the criminal court and in the civil court, and that it was very desirable that the question should be settled by some legis- 1917W lation; and whether he will take them into consideration with a view to the introduction of remedial legislation at an early date?
§ Mr. UREMy attention has been drawn to the remarks of the sheriff made in the, course of the case alluded to by my hon Friend. The long-standing series of disputes as to fishing rights in the Solway Firth indicates a very unsatisfactory state of matters, and my Noble Friend the Secretary for Scotland, is considering most carefully whether, and to what extent, remedial legislation is required. At present, however, my information is that the case above referred to has been appealed to the High Court of Justiciary, and that an analogous question has been submitted to the civil courts for decision. Under these circumstances I cannot promise immediate action on the part of the Government.