HC Deb 22 November 1995 vol 267 cc164-5W
31. Mrs. Ewing

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of the Scottish Fishermen's Federation to discuss current problems of the fishing fleet; and if he will make a statement. [804]

Mr. Raymond S. Robertson

My right hon. Friend last met representatives of the Scottish Fishermen's Federation in Luxembourg on 26 October when, together with my hon. Friend the Minister of State at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, he represented the United Kingdom at the Council of Fisheries Ministers. The current problems facing the fishing fleet were fully discussed.

34. Mr. Hicks

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions his Department has had with MAFF concerning allegations that Scottish-based fishing vessels have been fishing illegally in the south-west mackerel box; and if he will make a statement. [808]

Mr. Robertson

The Scottish Office maintains close contact with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food on fisheries issues. The mackerel box is kept under close surveillance by the Ministry's sea fisheries inspectorate. There is no evidence of illegal fishing by Scottish vessels operating in the box.