50 
said by some gentlemen that, even if the meshes were 
larger, the drawing of the net would prevent the escape of 
small fish; if that were so, what was the object in having 
the mesh so small, and why should there be any objection 
to having a larger one? -But the fact was, that in drawing 
in the net, owing to the motion of the sea, it was slackened 
from time to time, which would allow of an immature fish 
to escape. He had been very much pleased with the 
suggestion of Mr. Alward, that Conferences should be held 
all round the coast, at which men of practical knowledge 
could be got to take part, and he should only be too proud 
to attend such meetings. 
The CHAIRMAN said no doubt the resolution would be 
passed, and it would be the duty of the Executive Com- 
mittee to forward it to the proper authorities, but at the 
same time he would point out that they all knew well 
enough what was thought of a resolution in the House 
of Commons: a resolution might be passed, and not the 
slightest notice taken of it. Notably he could say that 
a resolution was passed last session which affected himself 
in an agricultural point of view, but nothing came of it. If 
this question came before the House of Commons, and any 
members were fortunate enough to secure a night when the 
discussion could take place, and a resolution was carried, 
there was no proof that whatever Government might be in 
office, any action would be taken in consequence ; but this 
point was beyond all doubt, that if the Government made 
up its mind to take any action in this matter, it would be 
only common justice to the fishermen throughout the United 
Kingdom that there should be a most searching inquiry into 
the whole matter first, and they must not encourage any 
Government to take a leap in the dark, and legislate in any 
particular direction without a most careful inquiry. Un- 
