HC Deb 26 February 1924 vol 170 cc307-8W
Mr. MILLAR

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether arrangements have been made with the Admiralty to give effect to the representations of the Scottish Fishermen's Association as to the suspension of gunnery practice in the Firth of Forth during the winter herring fishing?

Mr. ADAMSON

I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the reply given to him on the same subject on the 20th February, 1923, in which it was stated that special instructions had been issued by the Naval Authorities with regard to the Forth of Forth and that during the winter herring fishing there the practices were to be reduced to a minimum, no full calibre practices being permitted. I am informed that those arrangements are still in force.

Mr. LIVINGSTONE

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether, in view of the low speed of the fishery cruiser "Minna" and the long distance it is her duty to patrol, he will arrange that the experimental wireless apparatus shall be fitted to the vessel, with a view to giving further protection against illegal trawling to the crofter fishermen of the Western Isles?

Mr. ADAMSON

In selecting the cruiser which is to be fitted with the experimental wireless apparatus, the Fishery Board's object will be to make the best arrangements in the interests of the patrol service as a whole. In examining the numerous factors which require to be considered, the Board will take fully into account the requirements of the Western Isles.