§ Major ENTWISTLEasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that when the Freshwater Fisheries Act, 1878, which forbids the sale of freshwater fish during the close season, 15th March to 15th June, was passed the importation of freshwater fish was unknown and that the sale of imported freshwater fish was allowed under the Defence of the Realm Act; and whether, as the powers under the Defence of the Realm Act have now lapsed, the Government propose to intro- 981W duce legislation to permit the sale of such imported fish, in view of the fact that Continental and Irish freshwater fish is in prime condition during the close season and the restriction on such sales adversely affects the food supplies of this country?
Sir A. BOSCAWENI am aware of all the material facts. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative. The reasons which prompted the Order under the Defence of the Realm Act have ceased to exist, and the fish supply is now more than adequate.