§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received about the need for further conservation measures to protect Clyde herring stocks; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Hugh D. BrownA meeting is being held shortly with the Clyde Fishermen's Association to consider methods of conservation after the expiry, in mid-December 1976, of the present byelaw which prohibits herring fishing in the Clyde from 1st January to 31st March to protect spawning stock. In addition, in view of fears expressed of diversion of fishing effort to the Clyde while the herring fishery off the West Coast is closed for April and May, we have arranged a 157W voluntary catch limitation of 750 tonnes over these two months.