HC Deb 22 March 1967 vol 743 cc1707-8
36. Mr. Pardoe

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will introduce legislation to ban skin diving for shellfish.

Mr. Hoy

No, Sir. My right hon. Friend has no evidence that such legislation would be justified.

Mr. Pardoe

Is the Minister aware that Britain is one of the very few remaining countries in the world which does not have this kind of regulation? Is he aware that there is a real danger of the extinction of shellfish, particularly in the south-western part of the country? Will he now instruct the marine laboratories, working for the Minister, to carry out a full study of the effects on shellfish life of operations in the vicinity of the "Torrey Canyon"?

Mr. Hoy

I cannot answer for other countries, but I can say, on the available scientific evidence that we have, that skin diving does not present a threat to the shellfish industry. I can assure the hon. Member that scientific investigations are continuing, and we are keeping in very close touch with these. May I also acknowledge the co-operation that we are receiving from the organisation representing skin divers who are about to introduce a new code of good practice, which I hope will have a beneficial effect.

Mr. Bessell

May I ask the hon. Gentleman if he is really taking this matter seriously? Is he aware that many fishermen who are dependent for their livelihood upon shellfish are suffering grievously as a result of skin diving off the coast of Cornwall? Will he be good enough to look at this matter again, more seriously?

Mr. Hoy

I have looked at this, and I do take it very seriously indeed. That is why I have called upon evidence from so many sources. What I have given to the House is the result of these inquiries. As I have said, I have asked the scientific workers to continue with their researches in this respect and to submit a report.