Common Fisheries Policy

46.

 Mr. Michael Shaw
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what the current state of negotiations is on the renegotiation of the common fisheries policy.

Mr. Peter Walker
I refer my hon. Friend to the statement which I made to the House on 30 January following the last meeting of the Council of Ministers (Fisheries).—[Vol. 977, c. 1351–61.]

50.

 Mr. Myles
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied with the existing regulations for conservation of fishing stocks.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith
Yes. However, the Government are ready to introduce further national measures to conserve fish stocks in United Kingdom waters if these should prove necessary.

61.

 Mr. Strang
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what evidence he has of breaches by British and foreign fishermen of conservation measures, including quotas, in operation in British waters throughout 1979; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith
During 1979 convictions have been secured in respect of over 70 offences against United Kingdom fisheries regulations. Our fishery protection forces maintain constant vigilance and a high rate of boardings at sea and inspections in port in order to detect and deter such offences.