§ Mr. Mackesonasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware of the damage being caused to fishermen's equipment by the many underwater obstructions that are now in the English Channel; if he will arrange for compensation to be paid to the fishermen for loss of equipment; and whether he will have inquiries made with a view to removing as many of these obstructions as possible.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsI am aware that there have been cases of damage to fishing gear due to underwater obstructions, although comparatively few complaints have reached me. I shall be pleased to investigate any particular case of which the hon. Member may have particulars in order to 705W ascertain whether it would be possible to remove the obstruction. I am afraid that no liability can be accepted by the State for compensating fishermen for losses due to this cause.