Written Answers
Fish Poaching: Penalties
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether Section 28(2) of the Criminal Law Act 1977 can be made effective at once in respect of offences against the Salmon and Fresh Water Fisheries Act 1975 in order to protect fish spawning this year against poachers who at present incur lower penalties if they work in gangs than if they operate individually.
I regret that it would not be practicable to bring into effect Section 28(2) of the Criminal Law Act 1977 separately from the remainder of Part III of the Act with which it is inextricably linked. The relevant increases in penalties will be implemented as soon as the Rules of Court relating to Part III have been made. Meanwhile, the penalty increases already effected by Schedule 6 to the 1977 Act should afford increased protection against poachers.
Homosexuality In Northern Ireland
asked Her Majesty's Government:
When they intend to publish a draft Order in Council amending the law relating to homosexuality in Northern Ireland.
It is intended that a proposal for a draft Order in Council will be published at an early date. An explanatory document will be published at the same time to assist the process of consultation which will then take place.House adjourned at half past seven o'clock.