[holding answer 2 June 2008]: At this time I am unable to make a proper assessment of the implications of the moratorium on any part of the UK fishing fleet as there is still some uncertainty about exactly how in practice the Scottish Executive intend to apply it. I have expressed my profound disappointment at this unilateral action, which tears up long-standing arrangements between England and Scotland for managing fishing licences and quotas. It creates additional risk and uncertainty for fishermen at a time when they are already under enormous pressure and prevents then from carrying out their legitimate business.