§ 11. Dr. Godmanasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is his policy towards the European Economic Community Commission proposal to increase the minimum mesh size in the North sea and the west of Scotland demersal fisheries from 80 mm to 90 mm from 1 January 1987.
§ Mr. GummerThe Council of Ministers decided in 1984 on this increase for the North sea, subject to further consideration being given to possible derogations for sole, plaice and whiting. The Government believe that decision was fully justified, and that there remains an overriding need to improve conservation of the white fish stocks in 251W the North sea. However, we are currently seeking as far as possible to reconcile that aim with the needs of particular groups of fishermen.
We need more study before reaching a decision on the Commission's more recent proposal for the west of Scotland.