§ Mr. Home RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State For Scotland how many people have been employed at salmon netting stations on the River Tweed in each of the last five years; and if he will make a statement on the intention of the Atlantic Salmon Conservation Trust to close netting stations on the Tweed.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe number of persons reported to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for Scotland as employed at the nets by proprietors and occupiers of salmon net fishings on the River Tweed varies according to the time of the fishing season. The maximum numbers, including those employed on a seasonal basis, are:
Number 1982 107 1983 103 1984 116 1985 99 1986 96 The Government have noted with interest the proposals of the Atlantic Salmon Conservation Trust (Scotland) in relation to the River Tweed. This is, however, a matter for the trust and the owners of the netting stations. Government approval to any closure of netting stations is not required.