§ Mr. Kirkwoodasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is considering any amendment to the Inshore Fishing (Scotland) Act 1984; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MacKayMy right hon. and learned Friend has no plans to amend the Act. I have indicated in the past that I expect to review the operation of the Inshore Fishing (Prohibition of Fishing and Fishing Methods) (Scotland) Order 1985 once it has had two or three years in which to prove itself.
§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment he has made of the long-term effects of the EEC common fisheries policy on the Scottish fishing industry; what measures he is taking to restore confidence to the industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MacKayThe Scottish fishing industry has performed extremely well since the settlement of the common fisheries policy in 1983. Total fish landings in Scotland in 1982 were worth around £149 million, and this had risen to £215 million by 1985. The industry's performance was even better in 1986, with landings provisionally estimated at around £234 million. The confidence of the industry is reflected in the number of new vessels being built or on order. Although there will be some problems in 1987 because of the need to conserve white fish stocks, I believe that the common fisheries policy will continue to provide the basis for a healthy and prosperous fishing industry in Scotland.