HC Deb 10 May 1967 vol 746 cc1476-7
10. Mr. Russell Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in view of the controversy surrounding the Hunter Report on salmon and trout, and the complexity of the issues involved, he will publish a White Paper outlining the kind of legislation the Government intend proposing as appropriate to the future development and regulation of salmon and trout fishing.

Mr. Ross

I shall bear this useful suggestion in mind for consideration when I have completed my study of the Hunter Committee's recommendations and the various comments on them which I have received.

Mr. Johnston

Would not the Secretary of State agree that, since the Government are clearly undecided on this issue, it would be a good thing to do something which is seldom done in this House— debate the issue before it is decided?

Mr. Ross

I should be delighted to have a debate on this subject and to get the views of the House on it. Practically every organisation from which we invited representations wanted to meet us. We have met about 12 and there are about 17 others with which we said we would discuss the matter. We are hoping that these meetings may be over by the end of May. It would be a good idea if we could find time—I hope that we shall—to discuss this matter among ourselves.

Mr. Carmichael

Will my right hon. Friend consider in the legislation examination of the rateable value of some of the salmon fishings in Scotland which seem quite disproportionate to the income received from them?

Mr. Ross

That might be appropriate for a rating and valuation Bill, but not for considerations concerning the Hunter Report.