HC Deb 27 February 1996 vol 272 cc490-1W
Mr. Cox

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he last met his European counterparts to discuss the discarding of fish; and if he will make a statement. [16720]

Mr. Baldry

At the Council of Fisheries Ministers on 21 to 22 December 1995, we discussed the implementation of technical conservation measures under the common fisheries policy. I led the way in pressing the case for improvements to be made to help reduce discards and conserve stocks, and it was agreed that the Commission should present new proposals by 1 June 1996. The Council undertook to reach a decision on these proposals before the end of 1996.