§ Mr. MACPHERSONasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that depredations by trawlers are still taking place within the three-mile limit on the west coast of Scotland, particularly in the Minch, as well as on the east coast; and if he will institute stricter policing of these waters and also consider the introduction of a Bill increasing the penalties for illegal trawling?
Mr. W. ADAMSONI am aware that complaints of illegal trawling in the waters in question continue to be received. The areas have received and will continue to receive as close attention as the resources at the disposal of the Fishery Board permit. The question of legislation is being kept in view, but in the present state of Parliamentary business I cannot hold out prospects of the early introduction of a Bill.