12,485. Are there vessels of that class in use in Shetland?-Yes, several. Mr. Harrison had one up in December which succeeded very well, and there is one out from Scalloway just now at Faroe; but it is not considered that it will be extensively or generally continued, the fishing is so precarious.
12,486. Are the men unwilling to engage in the winter fishing in any of these modes?-I think it will be very difficult to get many men to go to it.
12,487. In other places the winter fishing with decked vessels is practised all winter, is it not?-On the coast of England it is.
12,488. The men there go to the Dogger Bank mostly?-Yes.
12,489. Is there any reason why that sort of fishing cannot be practised in Shetland?-There are many reasons why it cannot be done. There is the heavy sea, and the deep water, and the nature of the fishing grounds.
12,490. Would long-line fishing be impracticable on the banks of Shetland?-In winter it would. It could not be done in these vessels.
12,495. Is that owing to the nature of the ground, or for what reason?-It is owing to the depth of the water and the strong tides.
12,492. Has it ever been tried to set lines from these decked vessels?-In summer it has been tried, and it has generally failed. It has always been discontinued.
12,493. I believe it is necessary to set lines with rowing vessels?- Yes; the fishermen consider that to be the safest way, after all.
12,494. But they do sail out their lines sometimes, do they not?- Yes; and that saves them the trouble of pulling.