HC Deb 03 February 1953 vol 510 cc1653-4
48. Mr. J. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the salmon fishing season ends in England on 31st August and in Scotland on 31st October; that a fine of £10 and 10 guineas costs was recently imposed in London on a Montrose man who sent two salmon to London during the Scottish season on 23rd October; and if he will take steps, in conjunction with the Secretary of State for the Home Department, to ensure that salmon may be sent from Scotland during the Scottish season to friends or relatives of the senders without let or hindrance.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

Under Section 30 of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act, 1923, it is illegal to sell in England between 31st August and 1st February any salmon caught by rod and line, even if it was caught lawfully. My right hon. Friend understands that the charge referred to, to which the accused pled guilty, was brought under this provision. It is not an offence to send for sale in England fish legally caught in Scotland by means other than rod and line or to send to friends or relatives in England, for their own use, fish legally caught in Scotland by any means.

Mr. Taylor

Is the Under-Secretary aware that this gentleman who was fined sent the two salmon to a relative who, in turn, sent them to the market? Should it not be the relative who was fined and not the unfortunate sender?

Mr. Stewart

That is a matter for the lawyers, not for me.