§ 59. Mr. Stodartasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how long he proposes to suspend the protection which grey seals formerly enjoyed; and if he will issue a report on the research which has been carried out into the effects which grey seals have on fisheries.
§ Mr. MaclayThe close season for grey seals has been suspended off most of the Scottish coast by annual suspension Orders under the Grey Seals Protection Act, 1932. I am considering, in the light of investigations carried out by the Nature Conservancy and my Department, a suspension Order for a further year from 4th December, 1962, when the present Order expires. Some information about the investigations has already been published and the Nature Conservancy are considering the preparation of a more comprehensive report.