§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the levels of fish population in the River Black Cart and the River White Cart; what plans he has to encourage the development of angling on these rivers; and if he will meet representatives of the angling community to discuss potential initiatives.
§ Sir Hector MonroThe Government have no records of the levels of fish populations on either the River Black Cart or White Cart but I am glad to note that in the last few years salmon have been returning to those waters. Although the development of angling is principally for individual fishery owners or angling clubs, my Department has provided them with scientific advice on a number of matters. I meet representatives of salmon and freshwater fisheries interests when it is appropriate to do so.