HC Deb 10 March 1986 vol 93 cc374-5W
Mr. Austin Mitchell

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received on the Inshore Fishing (Prohibition of Carriage of Monofilament Gill Nets) (Scotland) Order 1986 from (a) the Scottish fishing industry, (b) the English fishing industry and (c) the European Economic Community Fisheries Commission.

Mr. John MacKay

Representations were received from

  • (a) The Scottish Fishermen's Association
  • The Highlands and Islands Fishermen's Association
  • Orkney Fishermen's Association
  • Salmon Net Fishing Association of Scotland
  • Association of Scottish District Salmon Fishery Boards
  • Western Isles Fishermen's Association
  • Western Isles Council
  • (b) The National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations
  • The Northumberland Sea Fisheries Committee

The Commission of the European Community was consulted and indicated that the order was compatible with Community law and in conformity with the common fisheries policy.

Mr. Austin Mitchell

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the Inshore Fishing (Prohibition of Carriage of Monofilament Gill Nets) (Scotland) Order 1986 applies to European Economic Community vessels.

Mr. John MacKay

From 31 March 1986 it will be an offence for any British fishing vessel to have monofilament nets on board in Scottish inshore waters. Any person found guilty of that offence shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding £5,000, or on conviction on indictment to an unlimited fine. The court may also order the forfeiture of any net or other fishing gear used in the commission of the offence.

Mr. Austin Mitchell

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what actions will be taken under the Inshore Fishing (Prohibition of Monofilament Gill Nets) (Scotland) Order 1986 against English fishing vessels fishing in the Pope Bank for cod with monofilament nets and landing their catches in Scottish ports.

Mr. John MacKay

The Inshore Fishing (Prohibition of Carriage of Monofilament Gill Nets) (Scotland) Order 1986 was made under section 2 of the Inshore Fishing (Scotland) Act 1984 which gives my right hon. and learned Friend power to prohibit by order the carriage, for any purpose, in any British fishing boat, in any specified sea area within Scottish inshore waters, of a type of net specified in the order. The order does not apply to vessels of other countries within the European Economic Community.