§ Mr. Beithasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is seeking to secure a derogation from the proposed European Economic Community mesh size increase so as to allow the North Sea whiting fishery to continue.
§ Mr. Gummer[pursuant to his reply, 23 May 1986, c. 367]: The Government fully support the increase in the minimum whitefish mesh size in the North sea to 90 mm, which is due to come into effect from 1 January next. The purpose of this increase, which is based on clear and repeated recommendations by international fisheries scientists, is to give increased protection to the round fish stocks in the North sea and improve their long-term productivity. As is invariably the case with measures to achieve long-term conservation gains, there will be some short-term losses and I am aware of the hon. Member's concern on behalf of fishermen, particularly inshore fishermen, whose income may be especially dependent on their catches of whiting. The question of derogations from the general mesh size increase is currently under discussion in the Community, and when this matter comes to the Council for decision we shall seek to reconcile as far as possible the needs of the fishermen concerned with the overriding priority of ensuring the improved conservation of the North sea roundfish stocks.