§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will continue the ban on the industrial fishing of sandeels in Shetland waters into the 1993 season; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Hector Monro[holding answer 26 January 1993]: The decision on whether to continue the closure of the Shetland sandeel fishery will be taken on the basis of the latest scientific analysis of the state of the stocks. I expect to receive the scientific advice within the next few weeks. We shall also have to take account of any implications of the recent oil spill from the MV Braer. The final decision will be taken after full consultation with all interested parties.