§ Mr. Onslowasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food why his Department is refusing to confirm a draft byelaw submitted by the North West Water Authority, in conformity with Section 28(6) and Schedule 3, Part II, to the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975, requiring commercial salmon fishermen to paint the net licence number on the boat in which it is used; and how many officials of his Department have so far been involved in this matter.
§ Mr. BishopMy Department has pointed out to the water authority that the byelaw in question may beultra vires because of a conflict with the Merchant Shipping (Fishing Boats Registry) Order 1927; clarification of the legal position is being sought. The answer to the second part of the Question is "Three".