§ Mr. David ClarkTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has made of the effects of beam trawling on the ocean environment; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GummerIt is apparent from the research to date that beam trawling can cause significant transient disturbance of the seabed. However, it is not clear whether long-term damage results and further work is being done in this area in which United Kingdom scientists will participate. The many benthic species respond differently to disturbance of the seabed and while some may suffer other thrive. When the further work has been done, the impact on benthic species and maintenance of sustainable use of our renewable marine resources will be considered.