§ Mr. Beithasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what conclusions he has reached about the Edwards Report on lobster fishing.
§ Mr. BishopMy officials have met representatives of the industry to discuss the Edwards Report on Lobster fishing in England and Wales. It was agreed that, as recommended in the report, a minimum carapace length for lobsters in place of the existing overall size limit should be introduced as soon as practicable. The industry is currently considering the proposed limits which might be applied, and is also giving thought to the need to provide better catch data for the lobster fisheries. I hope to make an announcement as soon as our consultations are complete.