§ Adam PriceTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received in relation to the cockle industry in the Burry Inlet. [86770]
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§ Peter HainNone. However, my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary has received representations from hon. Members representing affected areas of the cockle industry in Wales. These include the Burry Inlet. I am aware that the fishery has been closed for many months during the past two years, following an outbreak of Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) in cockles. I understand that the fishery is open at the moment.
I understand that the National Assembly for Wales, which has responsibility for fisheries issues, is working with the Food Standards Agency, with the Environment Agency and with Carmarthen and Swansea unitary authorities, to identify the causes of the outbreak, and to agree possible solutions.
I am also advised that the National Assembly for Wales is in the final stages of negotiations with the European Commission about state aids clearance for a compensation scheme for cockle gatherers who have suffered financial hardship because of the closure of the fishery.