53. Colonel Clarkeasked the Minister of Agriculture how many persons have been summoned, and what fines have been imposed on persons contravening the provisions of the Sea Fishing Industries (Immature Sea Fish) Order, 1948, on the Sussex coast during the year ended 31st March, 1951.
§ Mr. ChampionFour persons were convicted during this period for offences against the Immature Sea Fish Order, 1948. The offenders were discharged on payment of costs amounting in three cases to three guineas and in the fourth case to one guinea.
Colonel ClarkeIn view of the fact that the maximum penalty under this Order is£50, plus confiscation of catch, and I believe, confiscation of gear, and as many of the offenders are foreign, does the hon. 1624 Gentleman consider that these penalties are adequate and will stop this form of poaching?
§ Mr. ChampionThat is another question, which I think ought to be put on the Order Paper.
54. Colonel Clarkeasked the Minister of Agriculture what cases of poaching in territorial waters by foreign fishing craft on the Sussex coast have been brought to his notice during the year ended 31st March, 1951.
§ Mr. ChampionNone, Sir.
Colonel ClarkeCan the Parliamentary Secretary now answer the supplementary question I put on my previous Question, about foreigners poaching in our waters?
§ Mr. ChampionThe answer has been given that over this period there has been no case. The efficiency of the patrol vessels has, I think, been established.