Rhona Brankin: "Fisheries policy not working"

Scientists have said that despite tough conservation measures, stocks were still near collapse.

But the same scientists said other white fish species, like haddock and whiting, were doing well.

The problem facing fishermen has been how to catch more of these fish without catching cod at the same time.

The talks in Brussels were seen as vital in helping gain agreement between fishermen, scientists and governments about catch limits and other measures to protect cod for next year.

Cod stocks in the North Sea have been at their lowest ever level.

Only last week Scottish Fisheries Minister Rhona Brankin conceded that the common fisheries policy was not working and said the Scottish Executive was working with Westminster and Brussels to develop better legislation for the seas.

Ms Brankin said the executive was committed to making the seas sustainable.