HC Deb 10 June 2002 vol 386 c938W
Mr. Weir

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent discussions she has had with the Minister of Rural Affairs in the Scottish Executive regarding the Common Fisheries Policy; and if she will make a statement. [56879]

Mr. Morley

[holding answer 16 May 2002]: I frequently meet the Minister of Rural Affairs in the Scottish Executive to discuss fisheries matters, and last did so on 17 April.

Mr. Steen

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she estimates that the European Commission will publish its proposals on the future of the European Common Fisheries Policy; and if she will make a statement. [57506]

Mr. Morley

[holding answer 20 May 2002]: The Commission has said that it intends to make a presentation on its proposals to the Council of Fisheries Ministers on 11 June. This implies that the proposals should be published in advance of that. I and my right hon. friend the Secretary of State have made clear to the Commission that we consider progress in reviewing the Common Fisheries Policy to be a vital step in securing a sustainable future for fishing, and that we wish to see the proposals as soon as possible.

Mr. Weir

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent discussions she has had with(a) the European Commission and (b) each other EU member state regarding the Common Fisheries Policy; and if she will make a statement. [56878]

Mr. Morley

[holding answer 16 May 2002]: Both I and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State have recently had discussions with the Commissioner for Fisheries and with the fisheries ministers of various member states.