§ Mr. SpellerTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food why he proposes to restrict the rights of people fishing with rod and line only from small boats in the tidal waters of the Taw/Torridge estuary; and what representations he has received on the effect of the proposals upon the amateur private fishermen unable to cross the Bideford bar in a small boat.
§ Mr. CurryProposals to establish a series of nursery areas in the coastal waters of England and Wales for the protection of juvenile bass were published on 8 June. These included a prohibition on fishing for bass in the River Taw, east of a line from the western end of Braunton Pill to the site of the former power station at Yelland, and the River Torridge, south of a line from Zeta berth to the opposite shore. Fishing for bass and other sea fish would be allowed between these points and the Bideford bar under permit. These restrictions would operate only from May to October. Representations have been received from a number of local interests including the Braunton Small Boat and Angling Association.