§ Mr. OnslowThe ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what reports he has received from water authorities in England and Wales about the incidence of salmon poaching since the passing of the Salmon Act 1986: and when he how expects to invite the Salmon Advisory Committee to examine the effectiveness of the measures introduced in that Act.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonSince 1 April 1987, the water authorities have mounted a total of 787 successful prosecutions for offences concerning salmon and trout. A further 353 cases are pending. In addition—and during the same period—the water authorities have brought 21 successful prosecutions for the new handling offence contained in section 32 of the Salmon Act 1986 and a further 78 cases are pending.
The Salmon Advisory Committee will be asked to review the effectiveness of the new handling offences and salmon dealer licensing in the light of the operation of these provisions. I intend that the dealer licensing schemes will be introduced as quickly as possible, but it will inevitably be some time before the committee can make a proper assessment of their effectiveness.