§ 31. Mr. Hoosonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will 225W make a statement about the prevalence of otters in England and Wales; and whether his Department considers that any particular conservation steps are necessary.
§ Mr. Denis HowellI have no evidence at present that conservation measures are necessary. Two fairly recent surveys have shown that the otter is abundant in some areas and declining in others. However, another survey is in progress and I shall look to the Nature Conservancy Council to advise me if action is required.