§ Sir Peter Millsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will reconsider the increase in the minimum size for bass from 32 cm to 38 cm which is due to take effect on 1 May; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithIn 1981 we decided on the basis of the scientific advice then available that the minimum size for bass should be increased from 26 cm to 38 cm, but in two stages. The Immature Bass Order 1981 duly increased the minimum size to 32 cm from 1 May 1981 and to 38 cm from 1 May 1983.
I said on 11 November 1982, in reply to a question from the hon. Member for Isle of Wight (Mr. Ross)—[Vol. 31, c. 236]—that I would be considering whether changes in this legislation were necessary when the results of studies being carried out by scientists in my Department were available. I have now received the first part of the scientists' report. This indicates that there has been strong recruitment to bass stocks during the last three years, and that there is no good evidence that the stock is over-fished. The view of my scientists is that, taking account of the pattern of exploitation of this stock, and pending the completion of their studies, the minimum size could 113W remain at 32 cm without endangering the stock. Given this assessment I consider that the statutory minimum size should stay at 32 cm for the time being. The position will, however, be reviewed when the second part of the scientific study has been completed. That report is expected in the first half of next year.
Subject to the approval of the European Commission, my right hon. Friends will lay before the House an amending order to maintain the existing minimum size of 32 cm from 1 May 1983. I am arranging for a copy of my scientists' report to be placed in the Library of the House.