§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to reduce the use of bottom-set gillnets; and if he will make a statement. [130382]
§ Mr. MorleyI have no such plans at present. The Sea Mammal Research Unit is currently trialling a range of gear modifications, including the use of acoustic deterrents (pingers) with Cornish fishermen, in order to reduce the scale of cetacean bycatch. If these measures prove effective, I will encourage their use in all similar UK fisheries.