§ Mr. David PorterTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the disparity of fines for offences committed against fisheries regulations; and what plans he has for an overall sentencing framework for such offences.
§ Mr. CurryThe Department is currently reviewing the maximum level of fines for a number of fisheries offences to see whether they need increasing. The penalties imposed for fisheries offences within the maximum are a matter for the courts whose sentencing will take into account the circumstances of individual cases, including any factors pleaded in mitigation.
§ Mr. David PorterTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what discussions he plans to have with his EC counterparts on a coherent overall sentencing policy for offences committed against fishing regulations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CurryMember states are responsible for the enforcement of EC fisheries regulations in their territories and fisheries limits and impose penalties for offences under national legislation.