§ LORD MORRISONMy Lords, I beg to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they can give any information as to the effect to date of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries (Protection) (Scotland) Act, 1951; how many persons have been brought before the courts; how many convictions obtained, and whether there is any indication that offences have diminished since the passing of the Act.]
THE MINISTER OF STATE, SCOTTISH OFFICE (THE EARL OF HOME)My Lords, I am glad to say that the information available shows that the Act, in the passing of which the noble Lord, Lord Morrison, played a prominent part, is having a deterrent effect, and I am informed that there is much less poaching taking place than previously, particularly by persistent poachers and organised gangs. The number of persons proceeded against for offences against the Act since it came into force on May 10, 1951, until February 29 last, was 129. The number of convictions obtained was 125. There is indication that offences against the Salmon Fisheries Acts in Scotland have diminished, as the number of persons convicted has fallen from 390 in 1949, and 322 in 1950, to 184 in 1951.
§ LORD MORRISONI should like to thank the noble Lord for the useful information he has given us.