§ Dr. StrangTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what discussions he has had with his Spanish counterpart in respect of avoiding acts of aggression towards United Kingdom fishing vessels; what measures are in place to ensure the safety of fishing514W vessels; what steps have been taken in anticipation of the opening of the tuna fisheries; and if he will make a statement. [27404]
§ Mr. Waldegrave[holding answer 9 June 1995]: We keep in close contact at ministerial, diplomatic and technical level with the Spanish authorities both directly and through EU channels. The Royal Navy has the dual role of enforcing fisheries regulations and protecting UK fishing vessels. In the case of this year's tuna fishery in the north-east Atlantic, the Government have been closely in touch with the fisheries organisations. Among other things, a procedure has been agreed for measuring and recording the length of their nets before departure to the fishing grounds and for regular checks at sea.