New regulations under the Aquaculture and Fisheries (Scotland) Act 2007 and due to come into force on 1 August 2008, will make it illegal for fish or live spawn to be introduced to inland waters without permission.

The BBC News website reported Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead as saying the new rules would provide greater protection from “alien species”.

Mr Lochhead said “The legislation I am announcing today provides the government and district salmon fishery boards with a powerful tool to protect Scotland’s unique and fragile freshwater biodiversity, while continuing to promote the world-renowned fishing it supports.”

Depending on the river concerned, responsibility for the applications will rest with either district salmon fishery boards or Scottish ministers through the Fisheries Research Services.

Of course, declaring war on extra-terrestrial alien species is a reserved matter.