HC Deb 13 November 1992 vol 213 cc1006-7W
Dr. Godman

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions have taken place with representatives of the Clyde Fishermen's Association anent fishing vessels being allowed to fish in the exemption area of Loch Long; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

Discussions have taken place with local fishermen and the Clyde Fishermen's Association following a number of incidents in which fishing vessels entered the prohibited area of Loch Long and as a result proposals have been put to the Clyde Fishermen's Association to allow a limited number of local fishing vessels to enter the prohibited area when turning with fishing gear extended.

Dr. Godman

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what proposals he has to abrogate the Dockyard Port of Holy Loch Order 1967 in order to allow members of the Clyde Fishermen's Association to commence fishing in the loch; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

Action is in hand to revoke the Dockyard Port of Holy Loch Order 1967. This will be completed as soon as possible.

Dr. Godman

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions have taken place with representatives of the Clyde Fishermen's Association anent fishing vessels being allowed to fish in the exemption area of Loch Long; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

All foreign submarines visiting United Kingdom waters, including those belonging to the United States Navy, are briefed on the operating procedures to be complied with when in the vicinity of fishing vessels. Discussions have taken place with the United States Navy following the incident involving the USS Sturgeon on 16 September and further discussions will take place once they have completed their report on the incident.

Dr. Godman

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what proposals he has to commission a research project into the feasibility of commercial and recreational fishing in the Holy Loch; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

None.

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