§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received from the fishing industry in Southend about the activities of foreign fishing vessels within the 12-mile limit and, in particular, over the vessel "Golfe Breker" based in Zeebrugge; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithThe South-East Fishermen's Federation which represents the interests of many fishermen from South-East England, including Southend, has made a number of representations expressing concern about the activities of foreign fishing vessels within the 12-mile limit. The federation has reported to me an alleged incident involving the vessels mentioned by my hon. Friend. Accordingly, vessels of the Royal Navy on fishery protection duties have been instructed, consistently with their other duties, to pay particular attention to surveillance in the area concerned.