§ 32. Mrs. EwingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of the fishing industry; and if he will make a statement on the current implications for the Scottish fleet of current negotiations on the multi-annual guidance programme.
§ Sir Hector MonroMy right hon. Friend and I meet representatives of the industry as and when required. My last formal meeting with the Scottish Fishermen's Federation was on 1 October. Negotiations on the United Kingdom's multi-annual guidance programme for 1993–96 will clearly have significant implications for the Scottish fleet. It is generally recognised that fishing effort is too high and has to be reduced, but it is equally important that the targets which emerge from these discussions are realistic. Negotiations are continuing on this basis.