§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he will decide on the ban on Shetland sandeel fishing proposed on 24 December 1990.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythComments on the consultation paper issued on 24 December have been requested by 15 February. My noble Friend hopes to make an announcement on the future management arrangements for the fishery shortly thereafter.
§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland in which years since 1980 the spawning stock biomass of Shetland sandeels has fallen below 20,000 tonnes; and what measures have been taken or proposed to reduce exploitation of this stock in subsequent years.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythEstimates made in 1990 indicate that the spawning stock biomass was below 20,000 tonnes in 1986, 1989 and 1900. The 1990 figure of 16,000 tonnes is the lowest estimate made over that period. Measures taken so far to reduce exploitation of the stock have been to restrict access to the fishery through a licensing scheme and to close the fishery during the second half of the year. These measures resulted in a substantial reduction in fishing effort. We are currently consulting interested parties on a proposal to close the fishery until stock levels recover.
§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the latest estimate of the Shetland sandeel spawning stock biomass; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe spawning stock biomass figure for 1990 is estimated to be 16,000 tonnes.
§ Mrs. Ray MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what measures he is taking to eradicate enzootic abortion in ewes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythMy right hon. Friend is undertaking no specific measures to eradicate enzootic abortion in ewes, but members of the sheep and goat health scheme, operated by the state veterinary service, may opt to have their flocks monitored for the presence of enzootic abortion.