HC Deb 17 February 1977 vol 926 cc365-6W
63. Mr. Watt

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will now specify the period for which the ban on herring fishing in the North Sea will remain operative in respect of British boats.

Mr. Bishop

At their meeting on 15th February the Council of Agriculture Ministers agreed that directed fishing for herring in the North Sea should be banned from 28th February until 30th April and that a decision regarding its continuance after 30th April should be reached in the meantime. The ban will apply to vessels of all countries.