§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will make a statement on compliance with the EU ban on drift nets over 2.5 km long.
§ Mr. JackThe United Kingdom industry was reminded earlier this year that drift nets longer than 2.5 km were prohibited. Subsequently the Commission proposed that enforcement on the north east Atlantic drift net tuna fishery, which is prosecuted principally by French, but also by Irish and British vessels should be enhanced to ensure improved compliance with the regulations in force, including the ban on the use of nets longer than 2.5 km. I have made it clear that I am ready to examine additional cost-effective enforcement measures constructively. National enforcement procedures are kept under review and varied when appropriate.