§ Mr. Morganasked the Secretary of State for Wales whether, in view of the public concern aroused by the new fishery bye-laws proposed by the Welsh National Water Development Authority, he will order a public inquiry at which representatives of angling associations will be enabled to express their views in regard to them.
§ Mr. Alec JonesUnder the statutory arrangements, the Welsh National Water Development Authority considers objections to any proposals it makes for revision of its byelaws. The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and my right hon. and learned Friend then take these and any other factors into account in reaching a conclusion on whether to confirm them. When we receive the authority's proposals we shall decide whether or not a public inquiry is necessary.
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§ Mr. Kinnockasked the secretary of State for Wales if he ensure that angling associations in Wales are provided with an opportunity to secure public inquiries whenever the Welsh National Water Development Authority reviews fishing byelaws or introduces new fishing charges.
§ Mr. Alec JonesThe statutory arrangements provide angling associations with an opportunity to make their objections to changes in fisheries bylaws and charges proposed by the Welsh National Water Development Authority known to my right hon. and learned Friend and to the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. We take these fully into account, and may hold a public inquiry if necessary before reaching a conclusion on the proposals.