§ Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) how many objections have been received to the amended application for the Tweed Basin fresh water fisheries protection order; and what action he intends to take;
(2) whether he will hold a public inquiry into the amended application for the Tweed Basin fresh water fisheries protection order.
§ Mr. Hugh D. BrownMy right hon. Friend has received 100 objections. We are considering the proposals in the light of the recommendations of the consultative committee that a protection order should be made for a period of three years. The committee took into account the points made by the objectors before making this recommendation but my right hon. Friend is required under the Act to consider the objections. The Act provides for the holding of a public inquiry if objections duly made are not withdrawn, but no decision has yet been made on such an inquiry.