The following table shows the full and concessionary cost of a (i) non-migratory trout and coarse and (ii) salmon and sea trout licence in each of the last five years.
Salmon and sea trout Non migratory trout and coarse fish Full Concessionary Full Concessionary 2004-05 62.00 31.00 23.00 11.50 2005-06 63.50 31.75 23.50 11.75 2006-07 65.00 32.50 24.00 12.00 2007-08 66.50 33.35 24.50 12.25 2008-09 68.00 45.00 25.00 16.75
I should point out that the Environment Agency is under no legal obligation to offer rod licences to any class of persons at concessionary duty rates. Both the agency and I recognise that the increase in concessionary duty rates for this year is significant and the agency has publicly stated that it will use a significant proportion of the monies raised by the higher duty rates to improve access to angling for the disabled and senior anglers. I welcome this and I will seek evidence from the agency that it has honoured that commitment.