COARSE FISHING CLOSE SEASON ON RIVERS IN ENGLAND AND WALES

Early day motion 135, tabled 20 December 2000 by Martin Salter (Labour). Signed by 95 members.

That this House notes that one of the recommendations of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Review was for the abolition of the coarse fishing close season on rivers in England and Wales; believes that the close season should be retained on running water to protect the riverside environment, to minimise disturbance to vital spawning grounds and to preserve fish stocks; agrees with the findings of a recent poll showing that over 80 per cent. of anglers are in favour of the 125 year old close season; and calls upon the Government to reject the recommendation.

Signatures by party: Labour 70, Conservative 9, Liberal Democrat 8, Labour/Co-operative 4, Plaid Cymru 2, UUP 2.