§ Mr. Beithasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what investigation he has undertaken of the value of a salmon tagging scheme as a means of preventing poaching; what obstacles he has identified to the successful implementation of such a scheme; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacGregorAs I said in my reply to the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire (Mr. Kirkwood) on 20 February, at column 458, we have carried out a very thorough review of the practical problems associated with a salmon tagging scheme. This has involved discussions with the interested parties which have identified particular difficulties over the successful implementation of such a scheme, including the control of imports, the handling of our own farmed salmon and control over the issue and use of tags. I shall make an announcement as soon as we have been able to reach a conclusion.