§ Mr. ToddTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to introduce new controls over landings into the United Kingdom following the publication of consultative proposals issued on 3 March; and if he will make a statement. [58952]
§ Mr. MorleyFrom 5 January 1999 it will be a condition of UK fishing vessel licences that at least four hours notice must be given of all landings of whitefish and shellfish by vessels of 20m overall length and above. Landings (discharge of catches) must then be completed within four hours unless otherwise authorised. These requirements will not, however, apply where landings are made into designated ports during specified hours provided the master or his representative submits a copy of a completed logsheet prior to the discharge of catch taking place. The designated ports will be those set out in the consultation paper issued last March although for a number of ports the specified hours of landing have been changed in response to representations received. Prior notification is already required for the landing of the main pelagic species and this will continue to operate.
These arrangements will be kept under review and, if circumstances alter, changes in the arrangements will be considered.
The new arrangements will be consistent with tougher Community controls on landings currently being finalised and expected to operate from 1 January 1999. These will enable Member States to apply national designated port controls to vessels from other Member States and third countries landing into their territory. A more rigorous control requirement for 4 hours' notice of arrival in port is also expected to apply to vessels landing abroad unless specific designated port arrangements operate.
The Fisheries Departments will be writing to vessels owners and other interests later this month advising them about the detailed arrangements including those for providing prior notification of landing.