§ Mr. David PorterTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what studies his Department has undertaken in the last five years into the effects of pollution on fish stocks in the North sea; what steps he proposes to tackle pollution; and if he will make a statement. [8400]
§ Mr. BaldryMy Department annually monitors fish from all the waters around the English and Welsh coast. The results which are published show that where contamination can be detected the levels involved give no cause for concern. In addition, specific studies have been carried out and are continuing, to assess whether contaminants impair fish health. There is no convincing evidence to link fish mutation or disease with levels of contaminants found around the coast. Fish are safe to eat.
§ Mr. PorterTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what priority is accorded to neighbourhood agreements with France and Ireland in his policy for fisheries management; what factors militate against their extension to other EU countries; and if he will list the differences between such neighbourhood agreements and bilateral agreements with other countries. [8408]
§ Mr. BaldryThe management of fisheries resources in Community waters is determined within the framework of the common fisheries policy. The UK maintains close contact with those member states whose waters adjoin British fishery limits on a wide range of issues including conservation and enforcement. Bilateral agreements with third countries are negotiated by the European Commission on behalf of the union.