Mr. Maclennan askedthe Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has had from the Highlands and Islands Fishermen's Association (SG) about the importation of Canadian lobsters into the United Kingdom; and what replies he has given it.
§ Mr. YoungerIn October last year I received representations from the Highlands and Islands Fishermen's Association (SG) expressing concern that the importation of Canadian lobsters into this country, without any health certification, might lead to the spread of the lobster disease gaffkaemia in our native stocks. At that time I was able to assure the association that I had no evidence that Canadian lobsters were being imported into Scotland and that tests for gaffkaemia carried out in lobster holding tanks had produced negative results.
Since then I have learned of two imports by one company and my Department has drawn the importer's attention to the risk. I am considering with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, what further control measures would be appropriate.