§ Mr. SpellarTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what actions her Department is taking to ensure compliance with the European Union ban on drift nets longer than 2.5 km.
§ Mr. JackAt the Fisheries Council on 12 April the Commission tabled a report on the ecological impact of drift netting, together with a proposal. The Council had a first discussion on the issues raised, including a suggestion that a derogation for use of drift nets longer than 2.5 km should be reintroduced. I made clear my firm opposition to this and the importance I attach to taking environmental implications fully into account. The derogation was not renewed. These matters are now being considered by experts.