§ Mr. Cleggasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in how many rivers in England and Wales the disease of columnaris has been notified; and what steps are being taken to deal with it.
§ Mr. HoyOutbreaks of disease or suspected disease have been notified in 16 salmon and coarse fish rivers in England and Wales.
Where disease has been confirmed, the areas affected have been designated as infected areas under the Diseases of Fish Act, 1937, and the fishery authorities concerned have been authorised to remove and destroy all dead and diseased fish by all suitable means. Movement of all live fish and eggs out of the areas is prohibited except under my right hon. Friend's authority. In addition, anglers have been advised to disinfect gear as a 268W precaution against the transmission of disease from one river to another.