95. Colonel Clarkeasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware of the reduction in the catches of plaice off the Sussex coast; and if he will consult with other countries concerned, with a view to reducing the present intensive fishing of mid-Channel plaice-spawning grounds during the winter months.
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§ Sir T. DugdaleLandings of plaice at Sussex ports have risen slightly over the past two years, but I am aware that in general the stocks of white fish in the Channel are declining. I am advised that this is not the result of fishing spawning grounds but is due partly to natural causes, and partly to the catching of immature fish in the Channel and the North Sea, and that the remedy lies in action in accordance with the provisions of the Overfishing Convention of 1946. That Convention comes into operation two months after it has been ratified by the 12 signatory Governments; 11 of the 12 have now ratified, and it is hoped that the remaining signatory, Spain, will ratify shortly.