asked the Secretary for Scotland whether the Report of the Departmental Committee on State Loans to Fishermen has yet been presented; and, if not, can he say when will the said Report be presented; and whether he is aware that this delay on the inquiry and Report is detrimental to the public service?

I am not able as yet to add anything to the answer which I gave my hon. Friend the Member for the Wick Burghs on 4th February.

Is it not high time that these fishermen should be treated with regard to these State loans in the same way as Irish fishermen are treated?

I do not think it would be very respectful to the Committee to express an opinion on the subject of their Report. I would remind the hon. Member that I cannot control the Committee; they have a right to take their time. It is not my responsibility.

Somebody ought to control them.