HC Deb 07 February 1974 vol 868 cc362-3W
20. Mr. Luce

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects to complete his consultations with the fishing industry regarding beam trawling.

66. Sir T. Beamish

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what further consideration he has given to the views recently put to him by hon. Members representing Sussex coastline constituencies urging the banning of heavy beam trawling within 12 miles of the shore; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

After very full consultation I have concluded that, as the condition of sole stocks is causing anxiety, it would be prudent to ban the use of this very efficient gear within our 12-mile limit until conservation is assured by internationally-agreed catch quotas. Regulations, which will exempt shrimping from the ban, will be laid before the House shortly. I shall review this decision within two years, in the light of the international measures to restrict catches then obtaining.