Scientists would act as observers on vessels

They said the scientists who provide the crucial information on stocks for the European Commission should be invited to sea on Scottish vessels to obtain a more detailed picture.

The Scottish White Fish Producers Association (SWFPA) made the suggestion as members of the European Parliament began meeting in Brussels to discuss fishing strategy.

Ministers are due to meet next month to decide on quotas for next year amid continuing concern about stocks.

Every vessel must now become a research programme Mike Park, SWFPA

Last month, a report from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (Ices), advised ministers to endorse zero catches of cod in the North Sea, off western Scotland and in the Irish Sea until they return to an acceptable level.

The Ices scientists who carry out studies into stocks at sea have defended their research in the face of continuing criticism from fishermen's representatives.

Now the fish producers association has offered what it considers to be an olive branch to the scientists.

Chairman Mike Park said: "Every vessel must now become a research programme.

"Money must be given to put observers aboard vessels to see what is going on and I suggest 50 vessels in Scotland and 50 in Ireland.

'Objective advice'

"Put observers on board on a continuous basis to monitor what they are doing and get a real picture of what's going on, not just anecdotal."

The Ices scientists have argued that their research gives a more representative picture because, unlike fishermen, they do not necessarily go where stocks are plentiful.

Ices secretary general David Griffiths has defended the work of the scientists.

He said "We are instructed to stick to the science, to give objective scientific advice on the biology and other aspects of the natural sciences of the sea.

"We're told not to get involved in economics and social aspects of the advice we give.

"The scientists are acutely aware of the gravity of the advice when our advice has to be very severe."