§ Mr. Maxwell-Hyslopasked the Secretary of State for Trade when his Department first commenced consultations with some representatives of those engaged in the fishery industry in some areas in respect of the proposed certificates of competency; when the first draft of the proposed regulations and/or requirements for such certificates was first drawn up; when the first consultations with representatives of the South West Fishermen's Organisation took place; and who represented the South West Fishermen's Organisation at that meeting.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisConsultations began in April 1975. Proposals on the engine and deck sides were drawn up in working groups representing departments and industry which reported respectively in December 1976 and August 1977. These reports were not considered by the main fishing industry working group on the new certificate structure until April 1978 but in the meantime were brought more widely to the attention of the fishing industry in order that all who might be affected might be assured of the direct opportunity to comment upon them and be represented at any subsequent meeting. Mr. Leslie Cunnington represented the SWFO at the meeting on 17th April 1978. It has been made clear to the industry that there would be a long period of transition before any new regulations could come into force.