§ Mr. Freudasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps are being taken to control zander in the inland water ways of East Anglia; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithUnder the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975 the Anglian water authority is responsible for the management of fish stocks in such waters. That authority is currently engaged on a fisheries survey programme to establish the extent and effect of zander on fish stocks in the Ely Ouse and connecting waterways. Attempts to prevent the establishment of zander in the River Nene and connecting waterways are being undertaken by the authority through the periodic application of electro-fishing techniques. The authority is seeking advice, from countries with experience of the problem, on possible measures to control these fish. Angling clubs with fishing rights on affected waters are being authorised under fisheries bye-laws to remove and kill zander.