§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has any plans to reduce the catch of 'O' and 'I' group fish in the Shetland sand eel fishery; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythShetland fishermen have already taken voluntary measures to reduce catches of the youngest sand eels. We are currently considering whether additional management measures are required to protect the stocks.
§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his estimate of the maximum sustainable annual yield for the Shetland sand eel fishery; whether he intends to set a total allowable catch for this fishery; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe sand eel is a short-lived species, and recruitment to the stocks varies widely from year to year. In the circumstances, our scientists consider that it is difficult to estimate the maximum sustainable yield or to advise on an appropriate total allowable catch for the Shetland sand eel stock. Other conservation measures may be a more appropriate way of managing the fishery.
§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he intends to introduce a close season for sand eel fishing in Scottish waters to cover the period July to October; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThere are no plans to introduce a general close season for sand eel fishing in Scottish 673W waters. If further management measures appear to be needed around Shetland, a close season is one of the options which will be considered.