§ Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the damage and loss inflicted by grey seals on the fishing industry of Scotland and consumers of fish in Great Britain; 107W and if he will make a statement on the extent of such damage and loss, indicating his plans for dealing with this problem.
§ Mr. MaclayI am satisfied that there is some strong evidence of damage done by grey seals to fisheries but further investigation is proceeding on the nature and extent of the control needed. Meantime, I made an Order on 5th December, 1960, continuing for a further twelve months from that date the suspension of the close season, subject to certain conditions.