OUR ACHIEVEMENTS Last year, to the dismay of our detractors (many of these from the unfortunate NFA) NUBA led the way and inspired debate in several extremely important issues. The widespread and increasingly worrying taking of coarse fish by immigrants • the exposé of the ludicrous Sport England survey of angling participation figures, (virtually unchallenged by other angling bodies) • The need for angling unity to achieve for anglers the same ‘clout’ as the RSPB. Now as we see below in process. • The bombshell we levelled at the previously omnipotent and despotic RSPB on behalf of all anglers at the very top of this organisation, thus culminating in much painful and unwelcome introspection by this body re their angling policy and attitudes. The result of our campaign was the winning back of the fishing on the Isle of Wight’s only freshwater river, The Yar. This NUBA achievement has now been claimed by certain others. I hope these gentlemen and organisations will display a little more honesty and humility in future. We will be watching you. The new body of Angling Unity is to be welcomed. NUBA has been approached to become involved but will not. We aim to remain totally independent. However worthy and well-meaning this new initiative may prove to be and I am chancing optimism, it remains imperative that one organisation at least retains the power and freedom of thought and opinion to continually question, harry and expose where necessary, encourage and fight for clarity of intent and bone-fide practice in others. NUBA in assuming this crucial role will never ever be popular amongst the fishing establishment. That’s OK! Neither should the establishment fear us if their newly focussed aspirations for angling unity (some would say as a direct result of our stand) becomes the very welcome reality and the prize all anglers strive for. Good luck. A very big thank you to all NUBA members for having the guts to stand up for anglers. You have made it possible for us to be recognised as a powerful, independent voice. Our questions to the establishment are always answered and taken very seriously even if we have to go to the very top to hasten this process. (see below) Questions originally asked of Martin Salter MP in June 2007 and consummately ducked by that gentleman! Following my subsequent direct approach to the Prime Minister he has now kindly instructed Jonathan Shaw (Official Angling Minister) to respond to these questions in Mr Salter’s stead. The following document comprises the courteous response received in full on 3rd January 2008. I hope the questions and answers will still be of value and relevance to all. Alan Suttie
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