Chalk streams and salmon in Hampshire

That this House notes with concern the dwindling number of the Atlantic Salmon in the chalk streams of the River Test and the River Itchen; notes that Atlantic Salmon were named as an endangered species in Great Britain in December 2023; is concerned that analysis by Project White Hart found that just 187 adult salmon returned to the River Itchen in 2024, less than 20% of the conservation limit; notes the genetic uniqueness of English chalk stream salmon; notes that a thriving salmon population requires cold, clean water that is free from disease, pollution and sewage; is worried that a single major event, such as a severe drought or pollution spill, could push the Atlantic Salmon population in Hampshire’s chalk streams beyond recovery; welcomes the findings of the Independent Water Commission to replace Ofwat as the water regulator; urges the Government to introduce a new, stronger regulator with the ability to end the sewage scandal; and commends Winchester resident Jim Murray, Project White Hart, the Test and Itchen Association, the Wessex Rivers Trust and other conservation groups for the campaign to save this species from extinction.