HC Deb 11 February 1980 vol 978 cc467-8W
Mr. Wm. Ross

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he last discussed the position of the Atlantic salmon with the other member States of the EEC; and what national steps he intends to take in 1980 to improve the future survival prospects of this species.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

My right hon. Friend is considering proposals made by the United States for an international convention to control salmon fishing in the North Atlantic. Discussions on this are expected to start soon in the Com- munity institutions with a view to reaching an agreed EEC line.

My right hon. Friend is also reviewing the national and local measures available for the protection of salmon. But we consider that at present international action has a higher priority.