§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with representatives of salmon netsmen in England affected by the proposals, announced on 7th March, to prohibit the use of gill nets.
§ Mr. William Ross :Consultations have been held with all known organisations representing netsmen likely to be affected by the proposals.
§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what arrangements he will make to hear representations from salmon netsmen adversely affected by the proposals, announced on 7th March, to prohibit the use of gill nets.
§ Mr. William Ross:I consulted representative organisations and took their views into account before announcing my proposals.
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§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has discussed with the Fisheries Committee of the Northumberland Water Authority the proposal, announced on 7th March, to prohibit the use of gill nets for salmon fishing.
§ Mr. William Ross :No.
§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is satisfied with the effectiveness of enforcement of existing salmon conservation measures affecting the Tweed and adjacent coastal waters.
§ Mr. William Ross:No. My proposals to prohibit gill net fishing from boats are designed to make enforcement more effective.