§ Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what consideration he has given to the report of the salmon sales group on methods to deal with salmon poaching in England and Wales; whether he has given consideration to similar schemes in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MacKayThis report has been prepared primarily in the context of circumstances in England and406W Wales. In Scotland, the question of further legislation to back up existing provisions on taking salmon illegally has been considered in the context of the Government's review of salmon legislation. The NWC report has been brought to the attention of a working party of Scottish salmon interests who have been studying the question. My Department will keep in close touch with the detailed consideration of the NWC report.