§ Sir Hector MonroTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he intends to review the operation of the Inshore Fishing (Prohibition of Fishing and Fishing Methods) (Scotland) Order 1985; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe current inshore fishing regime in Scottish waters has been in force since July 1985. We have indicated previously that we would review the regime once it had been in operation for about three years, and we have therefore today issued a consultation paper proposing a number of changes. A copy of the document has been placed in the Library. The paper is being circulated widely and responses have been requested by 3 June. Thereafter, officials of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for Scotland will meet interested parties to discuss any contentious issues. If changes in the current inshore fishing regime are thought to be needed, a new order under the Inshore Fishing (Scotland) Act 1984 will be required.