§ Mr. ByersTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the present position with regard to the proposed special protection area on the Northumberland coast; if he will make a statement; what plans he has to introduce restrictions on the collection of bait from the foreshore on the north-east coastline; and what powers he has to designate an area for protection when it is to the seaward side of the mean low water mark.
§ Sir Paul BeresfordMy officials are consulting owners and occupiers. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has no plans to introduce any restrictions on bait digging above those currently in force at the Lindisfarne national nature reserve. The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 provide for the designation of European marine sites.