§ Mr. WALTER GUINNESSasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture, whether he is aware that, although rainbow trout are easily distinguishable from all native species and breed in winter instead of spring, they are subject to the same seasonal restriction as to sale; and whether, in view of the importance at the present time of encouraging all available food supplies, he will introduce legislation to allow rainbow trout of non-spawning age to be sold at any season while forbidding the sale of the mature fish during the months of February, March, and April?
§ Sir HARRY VERNEYI am aware that both with regard to its breeding season and in other respects the rainbow trout are sharply distinguished from the indigenous brown trout. I understand, however, that the question of special legislation with regard to this fish on the lines suggested by the hon. Member is not free from controversy and I am afraid, therefore, that legislation at the present moment would be impracticable. The Board would be glad to consider any proposals which were submitted to them jointly by representatives of all the various bodies interested in trout fisheries.