Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he can yet announce the specific date on which the salmon sales group established by the National Water Council and his Department will publish its report; and if he will make this report a separate statement from the announcement of the conclusions of his consultations on the review of inland and coastal fisheries.
Mr. MacGregorThe salmon sales group was established by the National Water Council. I understand that the council intends to publish the group's report tomorrow. In the light of the group's recommendations, I shall make such comments as I consider appropriate.
Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what points are still outstanding on the consultations with the various angling bodies of the United Kingdom on the review of inland and coastal fisheries; when these points are likely to be resolved; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. MacGregorThe consultations on the review of inland and coastal fisheries in England and Wales were not restricted to those representing angling interests. There have been important developments on many of the issues raised in our consultation paper. The main points still outstanding relate to local fisheries administration and to salmon management. I shall make a statement as soon as possible on these items as decisions are taken.