CHAPTER II. 



FROM THE APPOINTMENT OF THE COMMISSIONERS OF 

 THE BRITISH FISHERIES IN 1808 TO THE PRESENT 

 TIME. 



For some years previously the commissioners for manu- 

 factures and fisheries in Scotland, who had been ap- 

 pointed in 1726, had endeavoured to promote order in the 

 fisheries, and had appointed officers, called fishing bailies, 

 at difi'erent localities, who were of some use in this capa- 

 city ; but until the passing of the Act 48 Geo. III. c. 110, 

 which took effect from 23d June 1808, little had been 

 done to ensure success. The substance of said Act is as 

 follows : — 



1. Every vesssel employed in the British white herring- 

 fishery, from 60 to 100 tons, to be entitled to a bounty of 

 L.3 per ton, and L.l per ton additional to be allowed for 

 the first thirty vessels fitted out the first year. 



2. Bounties to the amount of L.3000 to be allowed by 

 the commissioners for the herring-fishery to persons who 

 shall employ boats of not less than 15 tons, and cure and 

 pack the herrings according to the regulations of the 

 commissioners. 



