§ 25. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the present close time for netting fish in the River Dee is insufficient to allow an adequate stock of fish to ascend the river and reach the spawning grounds; and if he will take immediate steps to extend that time by a further six hours.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. John Maclay)I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the answer given to him by my noble Friend on 18th February.
§ Mr. HughesDoes not the Secretary of State realise that that answer is quite inadequate and that the salmon fishing industry is not sufficiently protected? Will he invite evidence from experts to satisfy him that something should be done in this matter?
§ Mr. MaclayAs my noble Friend made clear, there is to be an investigation this year, and all the points that the hon. and learned Member has in mind will certainly be taken into account in that investigation.
§ Lady Tweedsmuiris my right hon. Friend aware that there has been acute 188 controversy on this subject for many, many years past, and that as the number of fish that reach the spawning grounds depends entirely on the weather in the early part of the season, will it be possible during this conference to consider more flexible arrangements?
§ Mr. MaclayThe investigation will bring out information that we shall have to study with great care in the light of the evidence available.