§ Mr. Nigel JonesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) how many dolphins have been(a) killed and (b) injured as a result of fishing in United Kingdom coastal areas in each of the last five years for which figures are available; [130375]
(2) what recent estimates he has made of the dolphin population in United Kingdom coastal areas; and what guidelines he has issued to the fisheries industry regarding dolphins and their protection. [130376]
§ Mr. MorleyInformation on the full extent of dolphin casualties caused by fishing is not available. MAFF is funding a research programme to obtain better information on by-catch figures.
The Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) estimate, on the basis of 1994 data, that there are some 75,000 Common dolphins and 12,000 White-Sided and White-Beaked dolphins in the Celtic and North Seas. No information is available for populations of Risso's or Striped dolphins in these areas or any of these species elsewhere. Estimates however indicate discrete populations of Bottlenose dolphins of up to 350 in Cardigan Bay and 130 in the Moray Firth.
Pilot projects are currently being carried out on gear modification and acoustic pingers. Following evaluation appropriate action will be taken.