§ Mr. MacdonaldTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will describe the scope and remit of the332W current review of the present arrangements for fish farming applications; when he expects it to be completed; and if its findings will be published in full.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonMy right hon. and learned Friend is reviewing the operation of the consultation arrangements introduced by the Crown Estate Commissioners in 1986 and is taking into account representations from the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities and a number of other organisations about the procedures currently operated by the commissioners in relation to the establishment of offshore fish farms. The review is not yet complete but he hopes to announce its conclusions before long. No decision about the form of announcement has yet been taken.