§ 69 and 70. Mr. Mathewasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what information has so far been obtained from the researches carried out at the salmon fishery trap on the River Axe; and what is the annual cost of the installation;
(2) when he intends to close the salmon fishery trap on the River Axe; and what compensation he proposes for interested parties adversely affected by the operation of the trap.
§ Mr. HoyThe information obtained covers such matters as annual fluctuations in runs of migratory fish, the effects on them of differing river conditions, and the number of smolts produced each year. The current annual cost of maintaining the trap and hatchery is £9,500.
The main purpose of this experiment is to enable the effects of artificial restocking to be scientifically assessed by comparing the data obtained before and after restocking. The restocking phase of the experiment started this year, and closure 75W of the trap would nullify the investigations which are of the greatest importance in relation to the proper management of salmon rivers.
There are several factors unconnected with the working of the trap which could account for the decline in catches in recent years. My Department has furnished all relevant information to an expert engaged by the local fishing association to assess independently the effects of the trap, and will be ready to have discussions with them if they should so wish.